Johnson pleased with Hartley capture

Bristol City manager Gary Johnson is very pleased after landing Paul Hartley on a two-year-deal at Ashton Gate.

The 32-year-old was released by Scottish giants Celtic at the end of last season was also wanted by his former club Hearts, Cardiff City and Ipswich, but it was the Robins that the player opted to join.

“We don`t tend to sign players over the age of 30 too often, but Paul`s got the brain of a 27-year-old,” Johnson said.

“He`s got good work rate in his game, adds vital experience in midfield and to the squad, and he`s still a Scotland international.

“He is also a winner. I think he is a great signing for this football club both on and off the pitch.”
Hartley added: “It is a very young team here and the manager stressed that he is looking for someone with experience to help them come along and improve.

“The manager is ambitious and he wants to see the team progress. We know the Championship is a difficult league to get out of but everyone`s aim here is to reach the Premier League.

“There are a lot of quality teams at this level, but you only have to see how Bristol City have performed to realise it`s a club that`s up-and-coming.”