Curbs: No Dyer consequences

The pair traded blows on the pitch while both were playing for Newcastle in 2005 but Curbishley is confident their spat is water under the bridge.

"I spoke to both players and have been assured that it was a one-off, and they both actually speak to each other regularly," said Curbishley. "It was just two players desperate to do well. They were getting well beaten, and it just boiled over."

Curbishley was delighted to finally get his man some 10 days after Dyer's original transfer collapsed when Newcastle upped their valuation from £6million.

And he is backing Dyer to recapture the form which, when fit, makes him a regular member of the England squad.

"We're trying to build a squad here. We are short in the middle, and Kieron can play that position," added Curbishley.

"Newcastle changed it at the last minute before - when he was just walking in the door - so that was disappointing.

"But common sense has prevailed; Kieron is looking forward to joining us, and Newcastle go down their route.

"Every player you sign has risks - and he is no different. I hope he hits the ground running and shows everyone what a good player he is.

"Kieron's got to make up for a bit of lost time, and I hope he does. We're delighted to have him on board."