Diamond cuts a deal

Photo: Anthony Miller

Zander Diamond with new boss Paul Dickov.

ATHLETIC added much-needed experience to their backline after snapping up Aberdeen centre-half Zander Diamond on a one-year deal.

The 26-year-old, who made 205 appearances at Pittodrie and skippered Scotland under-21s for two years, helps fill the void left by Reuben Hazell, who rejected a new contract at Boundary Park.

He is likely to partner Jean-Yves Mvoto at the heart of Paul Dickov’s defence.

Diamond, pictured above with boss Paul Dickov today, passed a medical at the club, easing fears about his fitness after Hearts expressed concerns over his condition.

Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy, who was today working on the completion of Diamond’s international clearance, said: “Zander had an ankle injury a couple of years ago, but played around 60 games after that.

“Hearts had doubts about his long-term fitness, but they were offering him a three or four-year deal — we have signed him for 12 months.

“He passed a routine medical and there are no problems.”