Fulham sign N Ireland defender Baird from Southampton

12 July 2007 15:34

LONDON (AFP) - Fulham signed Northern Ireland defender Chris Baird from Southampton on Thursday for 3.025 million pounds.

Baird, who had been linked with a move to Fulham's Premiership rivals Sunderland, has joined the London club on a four-year deal.

Lawrie Sanchez, the Fulham manager who knows Baird from his time in charge of Northern Ireland, told the club's official website: "I'm delighted that Chris has chosen to join Fulham despite interest shown by other clubs."

Southampton, who play in the second-tier Championship, said earlier this week they had agreed a fee for the 25-year-old Baird with Sunderland.

Most of his 25 caps for Northern Ireland have come under Sanchez, who added: "I am well aware of Chris' attributes as a player from my time with Northern Ireland and his qualities and versatility will be a major asset for the club next season.

"Winning the Southampton player of the season award last year is testament to his continued progress and development, which I have seen first hand at international level.

"Chris becomes my second defensive signing following the arrival of Aaron Hughes and both players provide some much needed strength to our defence."