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Johan signs up for La Liga's new entrants
By Patience Magill July 3 2004
Johan Mjallby has signed a two-year deal with La Liga newcomers Levante, having turned down offers from Celtic and his other former club, AIK.
Mjallby -- better known as Big Dolph by fans -- was signed by Dr Jo Venglos from Swedish club AIK in 1998.

He had four great seasons as a stalwart in Celtic's defence but his career was hit hard by a series of injuries and operations during the last two seasons before his contract expired in May.

The 33-year-old has signed a two-year deal with Levante, who have just been promoted to Spain's top league.

It is believed Celtic offered Mjallby a one-year deal but his decision not to take it up came as little surprise as he had struggle to regain fitness and form last season.

The Spanish move was a surprise to his old club, AIK, however as they believed he would return home to rejoin them after Euro2004.

Perhaps the thought of lining up against old club-mate Henrik Larsson -- now at Barcelona -- was too tempting for the Swedish defender.

Mjallby has played for his country 45 times and led out the team as captain for the pre-tournament friendly with England. But he stayed on the bench throughout Sweden's period in the tournament.

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