Riise leaves Roma for Fulham

Fulham have signed former Liverpool left-back John Arne Riise from Roma on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The 30-year-old Norwegian made more than 230 appearances for Liverpool but left Anfield in 2008, going on to make 99 appearances for Roma.

Riise was a Champions League winner with Liverpool in 2005 and he said he was thrilled to be heading back to England.

“I’m delighted to have completed my transfer to Fulham this morning and am looking forward to playing in the Premier League once again,” Riise said on Wednesday.

“Fulham is a club that I have been following as my brother, Bjorn plays here and he speaks very highly of the club and the staff.”

“Obviously I also played against the club in the Europa League group stage when they went on to reach the final of the competition.”

“I know that the club is ambitious, and continues to make good progress each year, under the guidance of the chairman Mohamed Al Fayed.”

“I am looking forward to working with Martin Jol and the rest of the squad when I report to training next week.”

Jol, who was appointed Fulham boss last month in the wake of Mark Hughes’ departure, said Riise’s experience would be a valuable addition to his team.

“John Arne Riise is an experienced international left-back who will bring a number of qualities to our squad and provide more options for me,” the Dutchman said.

“He is used to performing at the very highest level for both club and country, and is an accomplished player defensively, who can also contribute to our attacking play.”

“I am extremely happy that we’ve been able to add him to our squad, and believe that he will prove a valuable addition as we progress.”