Former Norwich City goalkeeper John Ruddy has joined Premier League side Newcastle in a surprise move following his release from Birmingham. 

Ruddy, 37, saw his time at St Andrew's conclude upon their relegation to League One and reportedly opted to turn down the offer of a new deal to pursue fresh opportunities. 

That has arrived in the form of Newcastle, with Ruddy expected to offer competition and depth to a goalkeeping department that already includes Nick Pope, Marvin Dubravka and new signing Odysseas Vlachodimos. 

With Lorius Karius leaving St James Park on a free transfer and Dubravka linked with a move away, Ruddy is expected to be third choice in the north east. 

"This is a massive club and it's a massive opportunity, so I'm really excited to get started," Ruddy told Newcastle's channels. 

"It was an opportunity I couldn't turn down. It's a huge, huge club which is only going one way and to be a part of that, however big or small, is going to be very pleasing and very exciting."

Magpies boss Eddie Howe added that Ruddy's extensive experience would be a useful characteristic to have in their dressing room. 

"I'm pleased to welcome John to Newcastle United. He has a huge amount of experience and adds a level of support and competition that we need," he said. 

"As well as his abilities on the pitch, he has a strong mentality and he is a leader, which will only benefit the group. I'm looking forward to him joining us as we prepare for the season ahead."

There was some speculation suggesting a potential Norwich return was on the cards for the veteran shot-stopper, but this was never thought to be a realistic possibility with Angus Gunn and George Long on City's books. 

John Ruddy has joined Newcastle United as a third choice goalkeeper.John Ruddy has joined Newcastle United as a third choice goalkeeper. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

Ruddy made 242 appearances for the Canaries before departing in 2017 at the start of Stuart Webber's tenure at the club. 

City will have a Ruddy on their books next season, however, after John's son Jack officially became a scholar at Carrow Road last week. 

The Welsh youth international is expected to feature in the Canaries under-18s ranks this season.