An experienced defensive midfielder, Griffiths brings a wealth of experience from home and abroad, most recently leading Uzbek side Pakhtakor Tashkent to the top of the Super League standings.

He joins other new City recruits including experienced Scottish forward, Michael O’Halloran, and promising young talents Lachlan Wales and Riley McGree.

Head coach Warren Joyce said: “Rostyn is a proven performer, excelling in both protecting the back four and in transitioning play from defence to attack quickly.

“Rostyn’s experience and leadership will also prove beneficial to the younger members of our squad as we continue to nurture and develop the players of tomorrow.”

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Griffiths began his career with West Australia-based ECU Joondalup, and has played in the Chinese and Dutch topflight as well as lining up for now defunct North Queensland Fury, Central Coast Mariners and Perth Glory.

The 30-year-old was in buoyant mood about Melbourne City’s prospects in 2018-19 after undergoing a medical and meeting the rest of the squad.

“The state-of-the-art facilities and Warren’s focus on building and developing a team to compete at the top of the A-League were both major factors in my decision to return to Australia, not to mention the unrivalled atmosphere City fans create,” he said.

“There is an experienced and well-respected group of players and coaches at Melbourne City, which will give me the chance to keep developing my game while allowing me to pass on my experience to some of the younger players.”

City’s season kicks off on Saturday 20 October with a derby against Melbourne Victory.