UEFA Champions League contenders Celtic FC have signed Republic of Ireland international striker Daryl Murphy on a three-year deal from Sunderland AFC.

Murphy's move ends his five-year stint on Wearside, the highlight being his ten goals in the 2006/07 campaign which helped Sunderland win promotion to the Premier League. He made only two league starts for the club last term, however, and rejoined former manager Roy Keane on loan at Ipswich Town FC. Murphy, 27, has eight international caps and follows Charlie Mulgrew, Joe Ledley and Cha Du-Ri in moving to Celtic Park to play under new manager Neil Lennon. The Scottish Premier League runners-up face SC Braga in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round on 27/28 July and 3/4 August.