SPL outfit Falkirk have beaten rivals Inverness to the signing of veteran defender Steven Pressley from Danish club Randers FC.The 35-year-old former Rangers, Celtic and Hearts defender had been expected to join Caley Thistle.

But Pressley, who is also a coach in the Scotland set-up, has opted to spend the rest of the season with their SPL relegation rivals.

Bairns boss John Hughes told his club's official website: "I'm delighted to sign a player I have admired for many years.

"His experience and leadership will help shift the responsibility off other players and will also help nurse the younger guys along.

"I have to thank the Falkirk boad for making the budget available for Steven."

Hughes said last week he had all but given up on bringing in new faces during the January transfer window.

Despite his frustration, he insisted he understood the Falkirk board's decision to prioritise the club's financial well-being.

But as well as sanctioning Pressley's salary, they are set to allow Hughes to bring in a goalkeeper to replace on-loan Scott Flinders, who recently returned to parent club Crystal Palace.

Hughes is taking a look at former Deportivo La Coruna keeper Dani Mallo, 29, who is currently without a club.

"If he shows up well, we'll consider offering him a deal also," added Hughes, who is keen to provide quality competition for number one Robert Olejnik.

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