Blackburn have made their first signing of the summer by bringing in Fulham captain Danny Murphy on a two-year contract.

The 35-year-old returns to the north-west, where he previously played for Liverpool and Crewe, having also spent time at Charlton and Tottenham before his move to Craven Cottage.

“Being able to bring Danny on board is a massive boost for everyone and I couldn’t be more delighted,” manager Steve Kean, preparing for life after relegation from the Barclays Premier League, told rovers.co.uk.

“His record is there for all to see. He is a model professional, who has a real hunger to keep on playing football and we are thrilled he has decided to commit his future to us.

“This is a pivotal signing for us.”

Murphy said he was excited about the challenge ahead for him and his new club.

“I am absolutely delighted to be signing for Blackburn Rovers,” he said.

“When meeting Steve Kean I soon realised the passion, enthusiasm and ambition he has for the club and how much he wants the team to bounce straight back up to the Premier League.

“His desire to get me to the club was a huge factor in my decision to join.

“The owners were also very passionate about their desire to move Blackburn forward as a club and create a squad that is able to achieve promotion.

“I’m excited about my new challenge and can’t wait to get started.

“I have enjoyed a fantastic five years at Fulham and I’d like to thank the club and the fans for all their support.

“Now, my new challenge is to help Blackburn get promoted and repay the manager’s and the owners’ faith in me.”

Murphy made 204 appearances in five seasons with Fulham, scoring 28 goals, and was made club captain by Roy Hodgson following the great escape in 2008. The likeable midfielder led the Whites to the Europa League final in 2010, but opted to leave Craven Cottage after only being offered a one-year contract extension by Fulham this summer.