Algerian international central defender Mehdi Méniri has joined the Blues on trial and is expected to play in Wednesday's friendly against Belgian side Zulte-Waregem. The 29-year-old is a free agent after former club Metz recently settled the remaining year of his contract.

Méniri, who can also play at right-back, was born in Metz but began his career AS Nancy, making his senior debut against Bastia in 1997. In 1998 he was in the Nancy side which won the Ligue 2 title, his only season playing outside the French top flight.

The 6ft 3in tall defender moved on to Troyes AC in 2000, during which time he played in the UEFA Cup.

Capped nine times at full level by Algeria, Méniri joined hometown club Metz in 2003, making 70 appearances in three seasons, scoring five goals. Last year he made 18 starts and two substitute appearances, picking up eight yellow and three red cards, but failing to score

Méniri recently had a spell on trial with Leeds United and in 2003 spent time at Bolton Wanderers but failed to win a contract.

Photo: Action Images

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