Harry Redknapp believes Republic of Ireland defender Richard Dunne will prove a great signing for Queens Park Rangers.
The 33-year-old has agreed a one-year deal with the Hoops after being released by Aston Villa at the end of the season.
And Redknapp, who has already signed Danny Simpson this summer, says the centre-half fits his vision for the west London side.
“This is a great signing for us. He’s a top-class defender and a great guy. He’s a good character and just what we need,” Redknapp told QPR’s website.
“He was Manchester City’s Player of the Year four years running, and he will be fantastic at this football club. He’s exactly the type I’m looking for.
“Obviously he had his problems last season with the injury but there’s an agreement in place that if he breaks down, the contract can be ended. He’s confident he’ll be okay and from our point of view, if he doesn’t have any problems with it then we’ve just signed a very, very good centre-half.”
Dunne, who has 77 Ireland caps to his name, will link up with his new team-mates for the first time when the R’s squad travel to Austria for a pre-season tour on Tuesday.
And the former Everton defender is eager to help the west London outfit seal an immediate return to the English top-flight after last season’s relegation.
“I’ve been very close to signing for Harry on a couple of occasions and the opportunity to work with him really appealed to me. Players want to play for Harry and I’m no different,” Dunne said.
“I know the club didn’t have a good season last term, but – having spoken to Harry, as well as Tony (Fernandes) – there’s a real determination to bounce back into the Premier League, which is where we all want to be.
“I’ve played in the Championship and won it with Manchester City, so hopefully my experience will benefit the team over the course of the season.
“It’s a good challenge for me and one I’m very excited about.”