FULHAM SWOOP FOR ETUHU

Dickson Etuhu - joined Fulham.

Fulham have signed Dickson Etuhu from Sunderland for an undisclosed fee.

The Nigeria international, 26, has signed a three-year contract with the Cottagers to end manager Roy Hodgson's summer-long search for a defensive midfielder.

"It feels great to have signed for Fulham Football Club. These are exciting times at the club and I've joined to become an integral part of Fulham's future success," Etuhu said.

"The club has made some terrific signings over the summer, adding to an already talented pool of players. Last Saturday's win over Arsenal shows just how competitive Fulham are in the Premier League.

"I'm looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates over the next few days, settling down and preparing for the club's next home game against Bolton Wanderers in a few weeks' time.

"This is a crucial stage in my career and I'm delighted to have committed myself to Fulham for what I hope will be my prime years as a professional footballer.

"There is serious competition for places in the middle of the park at Fulham but I've joined to establish myself as a first-team player. Now I aim to get my head down, work hard and prove to the manager that I deserve a place in his starting XI. "

Etuhu follows Andrew Johnson, Bobby Zamora, John Pantsil, Mark Schwarzer and Zoltan Gera as Hodgson's major summer captures.

The Cottagers boss believes he will add some much-needed physical presence to his engine room as Fulham look to avoid last season's perilous brush with relegation.

"It's no secret that we've been in the market for a defensive midfield player over the summer and I'm pleased to welcome Dickson Etuhu to Fulham Football Club," Hodgson said.

"Dickson fits the profile we were seeking. His athleticism, strength and brand of football will offer a new dimension to the roster of players we have available in midfield.

"The transfer window closes in a few days' time and I'm delighted with the signings we have made this summer.

"A great deal of credit must go to those working behind the scenes who have worked tirelessly to secure the players we have targeted."

Etuhu joined Sunderland from Norwich just a year ago and made 20 appearances for Roy Keane's side last season.