Former England international goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has signed a one-year contract at Preston North End.
The 34-year-old stopper turned down a new contract at Sheffield Wednesday in search of a new challenge and joins the Lilywhites to add further competition in the goalkeeping department.
The former Liverpool custodian started his career in the top flight with Coventry City, before the spell at Anfield and latterly Wigan Athletic, where he made over 120 appearances, before moving across the Pennines to Hillsborough.
The new North End No.43 is looking forward to the competition for the No.1 spot and said: “It has been a bit of a strange summer. Over the last 18 years I've always known what club I was going to be at during pre-season. I turned down an offer at Sheffield in the summer. I had a great time there, but I just wanted to try something new and this opportunity came up and I'm delighted to be here.
"I've heard a lot about the Club, I've been in the game a long time and I know a lot about Preston North End's history and what a great club it is. I am delighted it has been sorted out."
Manager Simon Grayson was delighted to add Chris’ experience to the dressing room, adding: “We think Chris is going to help with our younger goalkeepers in the squad. Obviously we've got Alan Kelly who has been instrumental in the success of our previous 'keepers in Sam Johnstone and Declan Rudd, and hopefully Jordan this year, but Chris will add both competition for places as well as bringing his experience of playing at the highest level.
“We are trying to get the right balance right the way through the squad of young players with youthful exuberance, but also have some lads who have been there and done it and can guide the younger players. The right balance can certainly help a team and we do think that Chris can add quality to the group both on the pitch and off the pitch.”
Chris will not be eligible for the Capital One Cup first round tie at Crewe Alexandra on Wednesday night, but will challenge for a place in the squad for the weekend’s first away game in the Championship at fellow 2015 promoted side Milton Keynes Dons.