yeah his age in not an asset but the fact he is so experienced and can help make our team competitive from the start is very good. He would be excellent cover for the defence and players like him, who go about their work without too much hassel and effort (Makelele like), can last for a while.
plus i hear he is only 1.7 million pounds to buy out his contract. that is a hell of alot better than most players of his calibre.