Northern Ireland international Brad Lyons has secured his Scottish Premiership switch from Kilmarnock to Aberdeen after “the best call I have ever had in football”.

The 29-year-old joins the Dons on a two-year contract and will work under Northern Ireland-born boss Stephen Robinson.

Robinson highlighted Lyons “brings a real competitive edge” and “strong leadership qualities” following the announcement of the signing.

Lyons, who started out in the Irish League with Coleraine before a move to Blackburn Rovers, was last season named Kilmarnock captain.

placeholder image — Northern Ireland's Brad Lyons has joined Aberdeen from Kilmarnock. (Photo by David Balogh/Getty Images)

“It feels amazing to be here...as soon as you see the set up at the training ground you realise it is a massive club,” said Lyons on the official Aberdeen website. “I just can’t wait to get started and get in amongst the boys.

“The manager is someone I know well...I know his passion for football and I saw first-hand how good he was at getting results.

"When I spoke to him on the phone about the move it was the best call I have ever had in football.

“Individually, my first task is to secure a starting spot in the team...then I want to help the team as much as I can.

"Longer term I want to win trophies, I know the club is capable of it...I know the facilities they have, I know the fan base they have – those fans deserve it.

"I can promise the fans that I will go out and give everything I have in every game.”

Robinson added "we’re really pleased” as Lyons is “exactly the type of player we’re looking to bring into the group”.

“He’s got valuable experience both domestically and at international level and we believe he will be an excellent addition to the squad,” said Robinson, with Lyons having played almost 180 times in the Scottish Premiership.