Former Nice midfielder Julien Sable has joined Bastia for the rest of the season.

Sable, 34, who played for St Etienne and Lens before moving to Nice, was a free agent after his departure from the Mediterranean coast club at the end of last season.

He told reporters: "I said four months ago that I was waiting for an opportunity that would really excite me.

"I'm a guy who loves a challenge, and Bastia is a well-supported club with a demanding fanbase. The objective is to keep them moving forward after two great seasons.

"I had offers from Greece and Cyprus, but the priority was Ligue 1 and France. I also had an offer from Chateauroux this summer.

Promoted Bastia are currently 13th in Ligue 1, and coach Frederic Hantz explained: "The goal was to bring in a midfielder with plenty of experience. We are a little short in midfield, and he can bring balance and has a greater defensive solidity."

Sable could make his debut in the derby against AC Ajaccio on October 21.