GOALKEEPER Joe Day admits that the move from Newport County AFC to near neighbours Cardiff City is a “massive opportunity” that he couldn’t turn down.

Day turned down the offer of a new contract at Rodney Parade and it was announced yesterday that he has signed a two-year deal with the Bluebirds to play in the Championship next season.

The 28-year-old is County’s longest-serving player having made 241 appearances during his five-year spell at the club, which started with a loan move from Peterborough United in August 2014.

His final appearance came in last month’s League Two play-off final defeat to Tranmere Rovers at Wembley.

Speaking to cardiffcityfc.co.uk after signing his contract, Day said: “The move here for me is a massive opportunity.

“I’ve had a good five seasons at Newport County. It’s been great and now I feel like I need to make the step up.

“I know a couple of the players from back at Peterborough, like [Nathaniel] Mendez-Laing and obviously Rhys [Healey] from when he came to Newport so it will be good seeing them again.

“The Championship is a big step up from League Two, but it’s something that I feel I’m ready for and I’m very much looking forward to.”

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Cardiff manager Neil Warnock added: “I’ve looked at Joe for the last 12 months in particular and I think that he’s had a really good season.

“He’s got the experience and a lot to prove, and I think that [goalkeeping coach] Andy Dibble will make a 'keeper out of him.

“It was a no-brainer, really. Living where he is now and with the family he’s got, I’m sure that he’ll give it his best shot, I’m looking forward to working with him."

Exiles boss Michael Flynn is disappointed to lose his number one, but he wished Day all the best at the Cardiff City Stadium.

"Joe has been a tremendous player for this football club on and off the pitch, his consistency and work ethic has got him this move,” said the manager.

“I would like to personally thank Joe for everything he has done here at Newport County AFC.

“I cannot remember a better goalkeeper at the club and it’s disappointing to lose a player of his quality, but he fully deserves the chance to play at a higher level."

In a statement, the club said: “Newport County AFC would like to wish Joe the best of luck at Cardiff City and thank him for all of his efforts for the Exiles during his time at the club.”

County have already replaced Day with the signing of former Millwall keeper Tom King on a two-year contract earlier this month.

Nick Townsend, who was Day’s deputy last season, is also under contract until next summer and should have recovered from a bicep injury in time to take a full part in pre-season training, which starts on July 4.