Clarets snap up former West Brom midfielder Reid

Burnley Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of former West Bromwich Albion defender Steven Reid.
New Claret: Steven Reid in action for West Brom against Arsenal last seasonNew Claret: Steven Reid in action for West Brom against Arsenal last season
New Claret: Steven Reid in action for West Brom against Arsenal last season

The 33-year-old, a free agent, becomes the Clarets fifth summer signing following the arrivals of Michael Kightly, Matt Gilks, Marvin Sordell and Matt Taylor, after agreeing a one-year deal at Turf Moor.Born in Kingston-upon-Thames, the former Republic of Ireland international began his career at Millwall and made his debut in the 1997-98 season at the age of 17.

Reid formed an integral part of the side that gained promotion to the First Division in 2000-2001 campaign and such form earned him his first cap for Ireland whilst at the Den.

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He went on to make over 150 appearances, scoring 19 goals, for the South London outfit before moving to Blackburn Rovers in July 2003.

At Ewood Park, he was a virtual ever-present for his first three Premier League seasons at the club and captained Ireland in a friendly against the Netherlands in 2006, but a back injury ruled him out for majority of the 2006-2007 domestic campaign.

In 2009, Reid enjoyed a brief loan spell at Queens Park Rangers before signing for West Bromwich Albion on a one month loan deal in 2010 and made 10 league appearances.

A permanent deal followed after West Bromwich Albion secured promotion to the Premier League under the stewardship of Roberto Di Matteo.

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And during his stint with the Midlands club, Reid who had spent most of his career in midfield, established himself in the right back position as the 2011-12 season progressed. He made 92 league appearances at the Hawthorns before the expiry of his deal this summer.

Notably, Reid bravely played for 45 minutes against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in 2012 with a fractured fibula!

The move to Turf Moor reunites Reid with manager Sean Dyche after the two played together at Millwall.

And the Clarets’ boss is delighted with the addition of a model professional, as he adds more vital experience to his Premier League squad.

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He said: “Steven is a very strong minded professional and he has had years in the Premier League so he has that bit of experience and know how.

“I know him personally from his younger days at Millwall and he was a very solid pro then and he still is now, perhaps a more rounded version of what he was then.

“Along with Matty Taylor we want that experience in the building as well as the vibrancy in the team.

“Both of those players played in some really awkward games for West Brom and West Ham respectively and hopefully that experience can rub off on others.”