Former Bolton winger Craig Noone has signed for a club in the A-League.

Melbourne City announced his signature today after speculation linked the two in previous weeks.

Noone, 31, played 36 games in the Championship last season, starting 25 of those appearances.

He played in a variation of positions throughout the season - including left-back - and can play on the left and right of midfield.

Melbourne City - who are owned by the City Football Group, the same group which owns Manchester City - have signed the midfielder on a two-year contract.

Noone has been at Bolton since 2017, playing 60 league games in his time at the club.

Director of football at Melbourne City, Michael Petrillo, describes Noone as a "proven goalscorer" and hopes he will help the attacking football the club is trying to play.

He told the Melbourne City website: "Craig is a creative, pacey wide player who, after playing at the highest level in the UK, will bring a lot in experience and threat to the team,” said Petrillo.

“Craig is a proven goalscorer and provider who is just as comfortable cutting inside and shooting from range as he is at linking up with his full-back and delivering dangerous crosses.”

“His style of play and experience match the same brand of attacking, progressive football we are striving to deliver, and we look forward to seeing him on the pitch.”

Noone will be joining up with the club at the beginning of pre-season in July.

Also speaking to the club's website, Noone expressed his desire to win silverware in Australia.

He said: "I’m excited to join Melbourne City and test myself in the A-League. This is an ambitious club that wants to win trophies while playing an exciting style of football.

“I want to win and be competing for silverware. I’ve come here to help the team and make a difference going forward in creating and scoring goals.

“I know a few players in Australia and know the quality is good. I’m expecting it to be physical and fast-paced and can’t wait to step out in front of the fans for the first time at AAMI Park.”

The Verdict

With Craig Noone struggling to get in Bolton's starting XI this season, it is no surprise to see him join Melbourne City.

Bolton's money problems have been well documented getting Noone of the books was something that needed to happen.

With Noone's stock falling considerably in the English game, you cannot blame him for wanting to go to sunny Australia with a chance of winning something, rather than looking for a new club - which would most likely be in League One.