Former Republic of Ireland international Damien Duff has joined A-League side Melbourne City FC on a one-year deal, the club have confirmed.

The 35-year-old, who won 100 caps for Ireland in a stellar career, makes the move down under after his contract ran out with relegated Fulham.

At club level, Duff lifted the League Cup with Blackburn Rovers, won two Premier League titles and another League Cup with Chelsea before transferring to Newcastle United and later to Fulham, where he played in the 2010 UEFA Europa League Final.

Head Coach John van’t Schip said Duff’s vast experience in England would be integral to the team and would assist in the development of the squad’s young players.

“We’re excited to have a player of Damien’s quality and experience for this season. We believe he can offer international standard quality on the pitch and will also be a great professional example for our younger players,” van’t Schip said.

“His career speaks for itself. He has achieved almost everything at club level and has been a great player at an international level too. He comes to us straight from the English Premier League with Fulham, so he has been playing at the highest level against top teams and top players.

“When we met with Damien, he was excited about the opportunity here and keen to work with us to help make this project a success.”

Online Editors