SWINDON Town have announced the signing of Northampton Town midfielder Matt Taylor on a free transfer this morning.

As reported yesterday, the 35-year-old, who has played for Portsmouth and Burnley in the Premier League, only signed a new 12-month contract with the Cobblers at the end of last season after activating an appearance-related clause in his contract.

However, Swindon have landed the former West Ham United man, who made 48 appearances in all competitions for Northampton last term and was left out their 4-1 defeat to Charlton Athletic on Saturday due to situations unfolding behind the scenes.

Taylor moves on with Northampton's blessings as he looks for more regular game time, which couldn't be guaranteed to him at Sixfields.

“We fully understand Matt’s wish to play regular first team football and it’s not something we could guarantee,” said Northampton manager Justin Edinburgh.

“At this stage of his career, it is perfectly understandable that Matt wants to be playing as often as possible and with the additions we have made to the squad this summer it has probably changed things somewhat.

“We said we wouldn’t stand in his way if an opportunity came up and that is what has happened, so Matt goes with our thanks and best wishes.

“He is a first class professional and we wish him well at his new club.”