England ´keeper James joins Bristol City

England goalkeeper David James completed a surprise switch to second tier side Bristol City on Friday.

James agreed a one-year contract with an option for a further year’s extension after rejecting interest from Scottish giants Celtic because he preferred to join a team near his Devon home.

The 39-year-old, who was available on a free transfer after leaving Portsmouth, passed a medical with Steve Coppell’s side and will watch their pre-season friendly against Blackpool at Ashton Gate on Saturday.

Former Liverpool, Aston Villa and Manchester City star James, who has 53 caps for his country, played three times for England at the World Cup, including their 4-1 last 16 defeat against Germany.

But James’s next competitive match will have a slightly less glamorous feel when newly-promoted Millwall visit Ashton Gate for City’s opening Championship fixture on August 14.

James revealed he could have continued to play at a higher level than English football’s second tier, but he felt it was more important to take his family into consideration.

“I’ve had offers to stay in the Premier League but it is more important that I play football – which I love – for the right club and be a family man,” he said.

“I had a long conversation with the chairman Steve Lansdown and I liked what he said about the club and his ambition.

“I know all about the plans for a new stadium and desire to win promotion to the Premier League.

“The club is ambitious and that’s what I am. The south-west has not had a club in the Premier League and that needs to change.”

Lansdown was ecstatic to seal the most high-profile transfer in City’s recent history and he added: “I’m delighted David James has agreed to sign.

“My ambition is for this football club to play at the highest level – the Premier League – and in the best surroundings, hence the work on the training ground and new stadium.

“We need good quality players to make that happen and that’s why I’m thrilled that David has agreed to come on board.”