Wellington Phoenix have bolstered their defence by signing experienced Englishman Scott Wootton, who once played under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.
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The 30-year-old centre back will join the Phoenix for the remainder of the A-League Men's season, most recently playing for Morecambe in England's third division.
Wootton has played over 200 English league games and made four appearances for the Red Devils during their successful 2012-13 Premier League campaign under Ferguson, alongside the likes of Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney.
With the average age of Phoenix players just 22, he will add valuable experience.
"From the research I've done and people I've spoken to the club has got a lot of talent and obviously it's in a difficult position at the minute and not where it wants to be," Wootton said in a club statement.
"I hope my experience can help that, improve the team and improve the results on the pitch.
"I'm a good talker, I'm a good communicator and first and foremost that's how I'll try and put my stamp on the team.
"Hopefully I can bring that bit of calmness and that experience at the back to help the team."
After leaving Old Trafford, Wootton spent three seasons with Leeds United in the Championship, where he linked up with New Zealand striker Chris Wood.
That was when Wootton first considered a move to the Phoenix.
"I actually spoke to Shaun (Gill) (Phoenix operations manager) when I was at Leeds United many, many years ago, but my first daughter was just one and the timing wasn't quite right for that move.
"This time the timing is absolutely perfect. It's the perfect step I feel in my career."
A ruptured ACL stalled the centre back's career in 2016 and he has since played in League One for MK Dons, Plymouth Argyle and Wigan before joining Morecambe.
Australian Associated Press
