Fulham sign Stephen Kelly from Birmingham

Fulham have signed Republic of Ireland international Stephen Kelly from Birmingham on a three-year contract.

The 25-year-old right-back made 37 appearances for Tottenham and had brief loan spells at Southend, QPR and Watford before joining Birmingham in June 2006.

Kelly, who also had a spell on loan at Stoke last season, said: "I'm happy that my transfer to Fulham has been finalised today and look forward to meeting with the rest of the team for pre-season preparations in July.

"I have spoken to the manager about plans for next season and I'm delighted to have joined a progressive club which has recently achieved its highest ever top-flight finish.

"I am also looking forward to being part of a strong squad for next season's Premier League and Europa League competitions."

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson added on the club's official website, www.fulhamfc.com: "I am delighted that Stephen has become our first signing of the summer transfer window.

"He is a talented young full-back with experience of playing in the Premier League as well as competing at international level.

"He will be a useful addition as we look to improve our squad ahead of the start of next season and I am hopeful that we will be able to announce further additions in the coming weeks."