Ross Barkley has been thrown a Premier League lifeline by newcomers Luton. 

The England midfielder, 29, spent last season at Nice after leaving Chelsea, where his career stalled following a £15million switch from Everton in January 2018. 

And the Hatters have snapped him up on a free ahead of their top-flight opener at Brighton on Saturday. 

Luton's new No6 said: "To be back in the Premier League, it's great motivation. 

"I'm still relatively young and over the last couple of years I've not played as much as I'd have liked. 

"But I've reserved a lot of energy and looked after myself, so it's great to be here now as I've got a lot to show but I'm ready and feeling motivated."

Barkley has been capped 33 times by the Three Lions and racked up more than 200 appearances in the Premier League. 

He burst onto the scene with the Toffees at the age of 17 but after what appeared to be a dream move to Stamford Bridge failed to showcase his talent on a consistent basis.

Yet Hatters boss Rob Edwards believes Barkley will be crucial as he bids to keep the Championship play-off winners in the top flight.

Edwards said: "Ross brings loads of experience at the top level, has international experience and brings an X-factor. 

"He gives us something different, he has that ability to make something out of nothing and we need that in the Premier League. 

"He's got all the tools required to make a difference for us. 

"It's really exciting for the football club. We want the fans to be excited and they should be about Ross’ arrival."