Fulham sign Irish winger Duff

Fulham signed Republic of Ireland winger Damien Duff from Newcastle for an undisclosed fee on Tuesday.

Duff agreed a three-year contract with the Cottagers and could make his Fulham debut in Sunday’s derby against former club Chelsea at Craven Cottage.

The 30-year-old was keen to leave Newcastle after their relegation from the Premier League last season and the chance to be reunited with Fulham boss Roy Hodgson, who worked with Duff at Blackburn, persuaded him to move to west London.

“I am happy that my move to Fulham has been completed and look forward to joining in with the rest of the squad,” Duff said.

“Fulham had a fantastic season last year and I know having spoken to the manager in recent days that the club’s ambitions remain high and I am looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

Duff is believed to have cost Fulham around four million pounds and Hodgson is confident it will prove money well spent.

“I am delighted to add a player of Damien Duff’s calibre to our squad, and welcome the further midfield options he provides us with,” Hodgson said.

“I have known Damien for over a decade since he broke into the first team at Blackburn when I was manager, so I am fully aware of his qualities and I am looking forward to working with him again.”