Albion sign Irish winger Reid from Blackburn

Premier League new-boys West Bromwich Albion signed Republic of Ireland midfielder Steven Reid from Blackburn on a free transfer on Wednesday.

Reid agreed a two-year contract with the Baggies after helping them earn automatic promotion from the Championship during a loan spell at the Hawthorns in the final two months of the season.

The 29-year-old former Millwall player, who will start his Albion career on on July 1, has the option of a further 12-month extension on his contract.

“We are delighted Reidy has decided to rejoin us on a permanent basis,” manager Roberto Di Matteo told the club’s website.

“He made a big impact last year both on and off the field. He was a consistent performer and also great in the dressing room.

“Having spent the last six years or so in the Premier League he knows the division inside-out and that kind of experience could prove invaluable.”