Leeds shopping in the bargain basements again snap up 34-year-old midfielder on a free.

Michael Brown is the latest ageing, free-transfer signing to arrive at ER.

Simon Grayson today (Monday) added the tough-tacking former Manchester City, Sheffield United, Spurs and Wigan player to his ranks. Hartlepool born Brown, 34, is a free agent having been released by Portsmouth after two-seasons.

The midfielder brings over 500 games worth of experience to ER, however eyebrows will inevitably be raised about his age and the fact that he has been released by a fellow Championship club.

Debate will inevitably rage whether or not he is long past his best or capable of enjoying an Indian summer at Elland Road. For every Bobby Collins and Gordon Strachan there is a Steve Stone and Ugo Ehiugo.

Brown is expected to link up with his new team mates in Scotland and face Falkirk in Wednesday night's friendly.

Another player, the wrong side of 30 who definitely won't be heading to ER is Jonathan Woodgate. Any hope of a sentimental reunion with the club he left eight years ago was dashed when Stoke City offered him a chance to stay in the Premiership - albeit on a pay-a-you-play deal.

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