CHERRIES chief executive Neill Blake hailed the signing of Gary Cahill as a "real coup" describing him as "one of the finest defenders to have played in the Premier League".

Cahill completed his move to the south coast, penning a one-year deal at Cherries, after his contract at Crystal Palace came to an end.

The 35-year-old has spent his whole career playing in the top flight, making 394 appearances, aside from loan spells at Burnley and Sheffield United in the Championship more than a decade ago.

During his time at Chelsea, Cahill won two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, the League Cup, two Europa Leagues and the 2011-12 Champions League, playing the full 120 minutes in the final against Bayern Munich.

Cahill's performances saw him named in the PFA Premier League team of the year three times.

He also featured on the international stage, at times alongside Cherries boss Scott Parker, earning 61 caps and scoring five goals.

Discussing Cahill's arrival, Cherries chief executive Neill Blake told the club's website: "We are delighted to have secured the services of one of the finest defenders to have played in the Premier League.

“Gary has a wealth of experience and knowledge which can only benefit our squad, especially the younger members who have been performing so admirably for us this season.

“A player of his stature and standing in the game was always going to be coveted once he had left Crystal Palace following the expiry of his contract in the summer.

“The fact he has chosen to sign for us speaks volumes for our club, our new management team under Scott Parker and the ambition we have going forward.

“We believe this signing is a real coup and a huge statement of intent from the club and everybody at Vitality Stadium is looking forward immensely to working with Gary.”