Irwin to be unveiled as Wolves player

Denis Irwin will be unveiled as a Wolves player within the next half an hour after the 36-year-old defender signed a one-year deal with the first division side.

Irwin moves from Manchester United after spending the past 12 years at Old Trafford, he previously had spells with Oldham and Leeds United.

The Corkman will fill the void left by the departure of Kevin Muscat to Rangers.

Wolves manager David Jones targeted the former Republic of Ireland international and fought off a host of clubs to land the versatile full-back.

He added on the club’s official website, www.wolves.co.uk: ‘‘The experience he will bring to the squad is unprecedented.

‘‘It was a scoop to pick him up with so many other clubs chasing him. He is going to be of great benefit to the club.

‘‘He is without doubt a top professional.’’

Wolves spent several months in the automatic promotion places last season, only to tail away at the end of the campaign as arch-rivals West Brom pipped them to second spot. They then lost to Norwich in the play-offs.

But it is hoped the arrival of Irwin, who brings with him experience of Champions League and Premiership glory, will help instil a winning attitude in the squad.

Club chief executive Jez Moxey said: ‘‘We hope the fact that Denis has been involved with winning so many honours over the years will be of benefit to our efforts this season.

‘‘Dave was keen to bring Denis to Molineux not only for his experience and undoubted quality but also because he can play at left or right-back and comes to Wolves from a club with a winning culture.

‘‘Everyone knows we have been looking for someone to fill the gap left by Kevin Muscat and in Denis we have found an excellent replacement.’’