Shamrock Rovers sign Damien Duff

Shamrock Rovers have completed the signing of former Republic of Ireland international Damien Duff.

The 36-year-old had been without a club since leaving Melbourne City in May, but he has now penned an 18-month contract with the League of Ireland outfit.

"I am very excited to have signed for the club," Duff told Shamrock's official website. "It's great to have it all finalised and now I'm just really looking forward to getting back on the pitch. I am still out with a bit of an injury, but I should be ready to get back training fully before the end of the month. After that I will be very keen to get back playing regularly.

"I have always said that I wanted to come back and play in Ireland and I am very grateful to Pat and the club for giving me the chance to do that. Not only do I get the chance to come back and play, but I get to do it at the biggest club in the country.

"I am as excited about this move as I have been about any in my career, be that Newcastle, Chelsea or any other. I left Ireland 20 years ago to go and make a career as a footballer and so now it's great to be back. And I am definitely not just here to see out my time as a player; I intend to make a positive contribution to Shamrock Rovers and to the league."

Duff, who has made 100 appearances for the Republic of Ireland, will reportedly donate his wages to charity.