Newcastle sign former Premier League keeper, 37, in free transfer after contract expired at League One club

NEWCASTLE have completed the shock signing of veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy.

The 37-year-old has signed a one-year deal for the Magpies after his contract expired at Birmingham.

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John Ruddy has signed a one-year deal with Newcastle[/caption]

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It comes after his contract at Birmingham expired[/caption]

Ruddy played 44 games in the Championship as Birmingham were relegated to League One.

And the former Norwich shot-stopper has now joined Nick Pope and Martin Dubravka on Tyneside.

Ruddy’s arrival comes after Newcastle announced the release of Loris Karius, who was the club’s third-choice keeper.

On the move, Ruddy said: “This is a massive club and it’s a massive opportunity, so I’m really excited to get started.

“It was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.

“It’s a huge, huge club which is only going one way and to be a part of that, however big or small, is going to be very pleasing and very exciting.”

Ruddy has clocked up more than 122 Premier League appearances after spells with Norwich, Wolves and Everton.

The one-cap England star also has more than 250 Championship appearances.

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Newcastle boss Eddie Howe said: “I’m pleased to welcome John to Newcastle United.

“He has a huge amount of experience and adds a level of support and competition that we need.

“As well as his abilities on the pitch, he has a strong mentality and he is a leader, which will only benefit the group.

“I’m looking forward to him joining us as we prepare for the season ahead.”

Newcastle looked to be under threat from a breach of PSR rules this summer.

But the sales of Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh have generated a cool £75million for the club.