Newcastle United announce fourth summer signing as 37-year-old goalkeeper joins the club

Newcastle United have officially announced the signing of John Ruddy on a one-year-deal following the expiry of his contract at Birmingham City

The signing now means that the Magpies have five senior goalkeepers on their books as it stands despite the release of Loris Karius.

Newcastle also announced the signing of Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos from Nottingham Forest with Elliot Anderson going the other way.

Ruddy joins Lloyd Kelly, Lewis Hall and Vlachodimos as players who joined the club on July 1.

Image: Sky Sports

John Ruddy joins Newcastle to "set standards"

At 37 years old, Ruddy hasn't joined the Magpies to challenge Nick Pope to be the first-choice goalkeeper. Instead, he comes in to help with training and to "set standards" as he says.

Ruddy has amassed over 500 appearances for 13 different clubs which included a seven year spell at Norwich City where he played against the Magpies on a number of occasions.

Ruddy has also previously played for Premier League clubs Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers and received his sole England cap in 2012 in a 2-1 win against Italy.

John Ruddy: "Newcastle is a massive club"

Speaking to club media for the first time, 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.

"Newcastle United head coach, 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."