D'Jaffo joins Aberdeen

Scottish Premier League side Aberdeen FC have strengthened their UEFA Cup squad with the signing of striker Laurent D'Jaffo.

Double signing
The 31-year-old, who has a metal plate in his back, passed a medical at the club's Pittodrie stadium to become manager Ebbe Skovdahl's second signing in 24 hours following the acquisition of another Frenchman - Motherwell FC's Eric Deloumeaux.

European dream
D'Jaffo had been released by English side Sheffield United FC after two-and-a-half seasons at Bramall Lane, and is looking forward to playing European football with his new club as they face Moldovans FC Nistru Otaci in the first leg of the first qualifying round of the UEFA Cup on 15 August.

'The special thrill'
"Ebbe Skovdahl has a very young side at Aberdeen so I hope I can lend it some experience," said D'Jaffo. "The chance to play in European competition also attracted me to the club as every player wants to enjoy the special thrill of playing in the UEFA Cup or the [UEFA] Champions League."

'Physical presence'
Skovdahl had been keen on the tall striker for a while and was rebuffed in a bid to sign him last season. "I have been tracking Laurent for some time as I feel we need a physical presence up front," said Skovdahl. "I am sure Darren Mackie and Leon Mike will benefit greatly from having such an experienced striker to feed off. Once again it's all about having options in the squad."