København lure Andersen back to Denmark

FC København have started their preparations for next season's UEFA Champions League qualifiers by signing Danish international goalkeeper Stephan Andersen.

The 32-year-old arrives on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract at Real Betis Balompié, having spent the last six months on loan with Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles. "I have experienced a lot in my career already, but I still have ambitions and I still want to feel what it is like to play in the [UEFA] Champions League and to win a championship," said Andersen. "I hope to do both with FCK. There is no doubt that this is the biggest club in Scandinavia, and it means a lot to get this opportunity."

At FCK, Andersen will be competing for a starting place with Swedish international Johan Wiland, who said: "Big clubs always want competition for all positions, so I will simply have to take up the challenge."

FCK coach Ståle Solbakken added: "We are happy to get such an experienced, hungry and competent player in our squad as Stephan. He has experience from the [English] Premier League, [Spanish] Primera División and major tournaments for Denmark, so he can bring a lot with him to FC København."

Capped 27 times, Andersen counts Charlton Athletic FC, Évian Thonon Gaillard FC and Brøndby IF among his former clubs.