Scotland defender Steven Caldwell joins up

Wigan Athletic are delighted to confirm the signing of Scotland international defender Steven Caldwell.

The 29 year-old, who is a free agent since finishing his contract at Burnley in the summer, has been training with the squad over the past few weeks, and has impressed manager Roberto Martinez.

He has signed a one year deal at the DW Stadium and is available for tomorrow night's Carling Cup game at Hartlepool United.

"We have seen what Steven is all about during his time here," said Martinez, "a leader on and off the field and he is a great personality to have in the dressing room. He has shown real professionalism in his time with us and we are delighted to have him on board.

"He has good experience of the Premier League and has played in the Champions League and UEFA Cup, plus is a full Scotland international.

"He is a totally committed defender who will add fantastic competition to the squad."

Caldwell was in the Latics side who defeated Dundee United in the pre-season friendly at Tannadice earlier this month, joins his brother Gary at Wigan, who was named club captain last week.

Steven says, "Gary has of course told me what the club is like and how impressed he has been with the set up here, and I am delighted to have sorted out my future now. I have already got to know the lads over the past few weeks and I can't wait to get started and fight for my place."

Stirling born Steven began his pro career at Newcastle United, later joined by Gary, although they never played a first team game together.

He has played nearly 80 top flight games in his time at St James Park, as well as at spells at Leeds United, Sunderland and last season at Burnley. He has also played for Blackpool and Bradford City, and has notched 10 caps for Scotland.

He has also been on the opposing side against Latics, for Sunderland in 2004-05 and 2005-06, and Burnley at Turf Moor last season.

The Caldwells become the first brothers to be at the club together since Warren and Wayne Aspinall in the mid 80s. He will wear the Number 13 shirt.