After being let go by Manchester City and becoming a hot commodity on the free market, defender Joleon Lescott signs a two-year deal with West Bromwich Albion.

The 31-year-old is the first signing for manager Alan Irvine who just signed a 12-month contract last week. The Baggies were three points from being relegated and acquiring a player who can provide leadership and quality to the backline is a solid addition to the club.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to agree a deal with Joleon. He’s an England international and a proven Premier League player, who has been at the top level for a number of years. He’s got Premier League and cup medals to his name and has had a fantastic career so far. When we realised he was available and there was a realistic chance of getting him here we started to work very hard on it. Full credit to the board and everyone at the club for getting this done as quickly and effectively as they did. I know Joleon and the type of personality and character he is, in addition to knowing what he can do as a player. He’s a great professional and he will add to a number of very good professionals who are already in the squad,” said Irvine.

Lescott is crossing enemy lines in the Black Country derby as he played the first six years of his career for Wolverhampton Wanderers and will now suit up for West Bromwich Albion in the rivalry that began in 1883.

Irvine needs to add more players to make sure the side stays further away from relegation this upcoming season and adding a experienced player with championship pedigree like Lescott is a good first signing.