Bournemouth signs free agent Sylvain Distin to 1-year contract

Having players with Premier League experience is a value often cited as critical to helping newly promoted clubs survive their first season in the top flight of English football.

AFC Bournemouth clearly agrees.

The EPL new boys announced Wednesday that veteran defender Sylvain Distin, released at the end of last season by Everton, has agreed to a one-year contract.

Distin, 37, made over 200 appearances for Everton during a six-year spell at the club, and was hailed by Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe as someone who will contribute both on and off the pitch this season.

"I see Sylvain playing a similar role to the one Ian Harte played. Off the pitch, he is someone the younger players can turn to in times when they need to speak to someone who has seen it and done it," Howe said.

"Ian was invaluable to us in that respect last season and the season before when he had experience in the Championship and no one else had. Sylvain now takes on that role and on the pitch I still think he has a huge amount to offer. He still has his athleticism and is technically very good. We are very pleased to have him."