The 35-year-old has been without a club for the last 12 months and will provide backup to Fraser Forster and Alex McCarthy
Stuart Taylor
Southampton have made one of the most surprising signings of the summer, by snapping up journeyman goalkeeper Stuart Taylor on a one-year-deal.
Taylor has been looking for a club for over 12 months after being released by Leeds United in May 2015, after just five appearances for the club.
He joins Saints as the third-choice ‘keeper behind Fraser Forster and summer signing Alex McCarthy. It is not the first time he has linked up with McCarthy, having been his backup at Reading between 2012 and 2014.
England goalkeeper Fraser Forster is first choice at St Mary’s, but Taylor will provide backup to him and McCarthy
The Romford-born player started his career at Arsenal, appearing in 18 league games over a eight-year spell.
During his time at the Gunners, he had loan spells with Bristol Rovers, Crystal Palace, Peterborough United and Leicester City, before joining Aston Villa in 2005.
He spent four years in Birmingham before signing for Manchester City in a similar deal to his Southampton move.
Speaking to Southampton’s website, director of football Les Reed said: “We’re pleased to welcome Stuart to Southampton Football Club.
“With Kelvin Davis retiring earlier this summer, and with so many games this season, Stuart’s arrival will provide us with added depth.
“With Stuart joining and Kelvin continuing to contribute to the squad and young player development through his experience in his new role means our goalkeeping department is in extremely good shape.”
Southampton have allowed Paulo Gazzaniga to join Spanish side Real Vallecano on a season-long-loan as he looks for valuable first-team experience, and were therefore chasing another ‘keeper.
24-year-old Paulo Gazzaniga has played 21 Premier League games for Southampton
Saints added England goalkeeper coach Dave Watson to their backroom staff two years ago, and Taylor said it was him that made the initial enquiry.
He said: “I was in contact with Dave Watson and he’s a fantastic goalkeeping coach. When I got a call from him asking to come down, I was over the moon.
“I know a couple of the lads who are already here, so it helps to settle in and I’m looking forward to getting on with it and enjoying it. It’s fantastic to be here.”
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