Tykes capture McEveley

McEveley: Joined Barnsley

Barnsley have won the race to sign former Derby left-back Jay McEveley on a free transfer.

As revealed by skysports.com last week Barnsley were leading the chase to sign the former Blackburn man after holding talks with him.

The 25-year-old was being chased by a number of clubs after leaving the Rams at the end of last term.

The Scotland international, who has three caps for his country, has signed a two-year deal with the Tykes.

He has become boss Mark Robins' fifth signing as he bids to revamp his squad for his first full season in charge.

Robbins told the club's official website: "I have been looking for a left-back and I am very happy to have brought Jay to the club.

"Carl Dickinson did very well for us last season but when I found out that Jay was available and interested in coming to speak with us, I wasted no time in getting him here.

"Jay had offers from other clubs but has chosen to join us and I am delighted with that.

"He is a player with a lot of Championship and Premier League experience and has won international honours for Scotland.

"I know that he is desperate to get back into the international set-up and we are hopeful that both Jay and Jim O'Brien will do well enough with us to get into the Scottish squad next season.

"Jay is a great addition to our squad; he is still only 25 but is very ambitious and wants to improve".

McEveley, who came through the youth ranks at Blackburn, joined Derby in 2007 and helped the Rams into the top flight.

During his career, he has also had loan spells at Burnley, Gillingham, Ipswich, Preston and Charlton.