Marco Amelia to Chelsea: Veteran goalkeeper joins with Thibaut Courtois still out injured

The former Italy international began his career with Roma and also spent four years at AC Milan

Marco Amelia (GETTY IMAGES)

Chelsea have signed goalkeeper Marco Amelia on a free transfer.

Boss Jose Mourinho has drafted in the 33-year-old free agent as cover for Asmir Begovic, with first-choice Thibaut Courtois currently out injured.

Amelia has agreed a contract until the end of the season and will be available for the Blues when they return to Premier League action against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge a week on Saturday.

The former Italy international began his career with Roma and also spent four years at AC Milan, before joining Serie B side Perugia last season.

He had been training with the Blues at their Cobham headquarters and impressed enough to earn a deal.

Academy keeper Jamal Blackman, 21, who has yet to make a first-team appearance, has been on the Chelsea bench in recent weeks.

Courtois is expected to be back in action in December after suffering knee ligament damage in training last month.

PA