Former Aston Villa and Bolton Wanderers full-back Jlloyd Samuel has joined Iranian side Esteghlal on a five-month deal.
The 30-year-old opted for a switch to the Middle East following failed trials at Leeds United and West Ham United.
"It was through a friend who had the contact, I had a look at it and it seemed to add up for myself," he told Sky Sports News.
"Obviously it's a new challenge, something out of the ordinary but I'm willing to take that chance.
"They are one of the biggest clubs in Iran, they have 100,000 people watching their derby games and the fans here are unbelievable really."
Samuel has also had loan spells with Gillingham and Cardiff City during his career.
