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Roy Carroll returns to Northern Ireland to play for Linfield

Roy Carroll playing for Northern Ireland
Image: Roy Carroll has returned home to play for Linfield under former team-mate David Healy

Northern Ireland goalkeeper Roy Carroll is returning home to play for Irish League side Linfield.

The 38-year-old, who looks certain to be included in Michael O'Neill's Euro 2016 squad, has signed a one-year deal with the Belfast club having spent the last two seasons at Notts County.

Carroll played for Manchester United between 2001 and 2005, and also enjoyed spells with Wigan, West Ham, Derby and Olympiacos.

He played in five of his country's Euro qualifiers, helping Michael O'Neill's side qualify for their first major tournament in 30 years.

Northern Ireland footballer David Healy celebrates after defeating Denmark 17 November 2007
Image: David Healy convinced his old team-mate to sign for Linfield

The Blues are managed by David Healy, a former international team-mate of Carroll and Northern Ireland's record goalscorer.

Linfield came second in the Irish League this season, finishing eight points behind champions Crusaders, and Healy is hoping Carroll will add valuable experience to his squad.

"I'm delighted to be able to advise our supporters that Roy Carroll has signed a one-year deal as a player to take effect from June 1," he said.

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Roy Carroll and Alex Ferguson at Manchester United
Image: Carroll spent four years at Manchester United winning the Premier League in 2003

"He's obviously a player I know very well and he will bring with him considerable experience which will be of enormous benefit to the goalkeepers in our squad and indeed our entire squad.

"I'm looking forward to working with him once his international commitments are concluded in the coming weeks."

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