<
>

Former Liverpool forward Ryan Babel signs for Deportivo La Coruna

Deportivo La Coruna have signed former Liverpool forward Ryan Babel until the end of the year to replace injured Joselu.

Joselu, who joined Depor on a season-long loan from Stoke City this summer, is expected to be sidelined for two months after sustaining a knee injury during Sunday's 1-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao.

The Liga club announced on Thursday that Babel, 29, had completed a medical this morning before putting pen to paper on a contract that will run until Dec. 31.

Babel was free to join Depor after recently being released by United Arab Emirates side Al-Ain.

The former Ajax and Netherlands winger is thrilled to have the opportunity to play in Spain for the first time in his career and told the club's official website: "I'm really enthusiastic. It's a dream come true to play in the Spanish league. I'm very grateful to Deportivo for giving me this opportunity.

"I got the call a few days ago and I didn't have to think much about it. It's great opportunity for me."

Depor have won one of their opening three games and play away to Alaves on Monday with Babel unlikely to feature.

"I'm in good condition but not ready to play games just yet," he said. "It's always difficult for a player who has not taken part in preseason to adapt but with my experience, I will be able to overcome this."