Neil Kilkenny returns to Australia to join City

A-League side Melbourne City have completed the signing of Neil Kilkenny, the club announced on Tuesday.

Kilkenny, 30, joins City on a two-year deal after undergoing a medical in Manchester last week.

The midfielder links up with the Australian side after two seasons with Championship outfit Preston North End.

"I have always wanted to challenge myself in the A-League and this move has come at the perfect time," he said.

"I'm excited to be playing for a team that plays a certain style of football. I'm looking forward to the challenge and the adventure and everything that surrounds this move and I can't wait to start."

Kilkenny was born in England but moved to Australia at a young age, going on to represent the latter at international level 14 times.

He spent time in Arsenal's youth system before playing for the likes of Birmingham City, Oldham City, Leeds United, Bristol City and most recently Preston.

Kilkenny is the sixth addition to the City squad for 2016-17, joining Manny Muscat, Bruce Kamau, Daniel Arzani, Ruon Tongyik and Luke Brattan.