Republic of Ireland defender Richard Keogh has returned to football for the first time since his sacking by Derby after signing for MK Dons.
The 33-year-old had his Rams contract terminated in October having been involved in a car crash which resulted in former team-mates Tom Lawrence and Mason Bennett being convicted of drink-driving.
He is “hungry” to get his career back on track with Russell Martin’s Sky Bet League One side.
“I’m delighted to be here. Once I spoke to Russ and saw the vision and playing style he has – it just felt like the right fit for me,” he told the Dons’ website.
“I can’t be more excited, it’s a fantastic set-up here and I really believe in what Russ is trying to build here – I think it’s going to be a perfect fit for me.
“I’ve missed a lot of football and you’re getting someone who is going to be excited and hungry to play and push this team forward.”
Dons boss Martin said: “He probably turned down more lucrative offers to play here and, for me, it’s a massive signing and it’s a statement from him to say he wants to be part of it.
“He’s been my number one target in that position for a long time.”
