Former Celtic defender Adam Matthews joins Shamrock Rovers

Shamrock Rovers have signed former Celtic four-in-a-row league winner Adam Matthews for the new season.

The former Welsh international joins from Omonia Nicosia where he spent the last two seasons.

The 33-year-old also played for Cardiff City, Sunderland and Charlton Athletic, bringing significant experience to Tallaght Stadium.

The Swansea native is predominantly a right-back but also bring defensive versatility.

Hoops boss Stephen Bradley said: "We're absolutely delighted. He’s one we’ve been working on for a while now and had many conversations. We are delighted to get Adam in, with the level he has played at.

"Stephen McPhail had actually played with Adam, so we knew quite a lot about him.

"He will bring really valuable experience, and his ability on the pitch speaks for itself so we’re really looking forward to getting Adam in.

"In terms of the level he’s played at, we all know what you need to play at that level in terms of ability, so he’s obviously got that. Also, anyone you speak to, or worked with or played with Adam will tell you he’s a top-class professional. He’s one we think is really important for the group.

"We’ve obviously signed some young players, so it’ll be nice to have that bit of experience and understanding around them. So, he’s one we think can help the group go to another level.

"When you look at Adam and speak to people, you see the career he’s had, he’s played all five positions across the defence.

"He’s actually played mostly on the left-hand side of a back four or five. He’s very versatile and clever, which is also really appealing to us.

"When we were looking at Adam it was very clear he’s comfortable in any of those five defensive positions.

"That’s really important for us."

Darragh Burns has featured