Borussia Dortmund have responded to their central defensive woes following the long-term injuries to Neven Subotic and Mats Hummels by signing former Germany international Manuel Friedrich until the end of the season. The 34-year-old was out of contract and is therefore immediately eligible to play for BVB.

 

“We responded to the injuries in our defence. Manuel Friedrich has a wealth of experience and made a good impression on us in training,” said BVB sporting director Michael Zorc who agreed terms with Friedrich over a deal until 30 June 2014 on Wednesday afternoon.

The 6ft 4‘ (1.89m) defender played for FSV Mainz 05 from 1998 to 2002 as well as from 2004 to 2007 when he forged his way into the national team squad. Starting in August 2006, Friedrich won a total of nine caps for Germany, scoring one goal. He was also contracted to Werder Bremen (2002 to 2004) and Bayer Leverkusen (2007 to 2013) and has made 247 appearances (15 goals) in the Bundesliga.

“I’m so looking forward to play at SIGNAL IDUNA PARK in a Borussia Dortmund shirt,“ said Friedrich. “So far I’ve only enjoyed this privilege as a visitor. To have the Yellow Wall behind and not against you must be an unbelievable feeling. I’m looking forward to a cool time in black and yellow.”