Johnson returns to Middlesex

Richard Johnson now of Middlesex © Getty Images

Former England seamer Richard Johnson has rejoined Middlesex for 2007 on a two-year contract from Somerset.

Johnson had come to the end of his contract at Taunton and had talked to Kent about a possible move but decided to return to Lord’s.

Johnson joined Somerset in 2001 and was a member of the team that lifted the Cheltenham and Gloucester Trophy at the end of that season as well as ending as runners up in the county championship.

He took 227 wickets in 66 first-class matches for Somerset.

Middlesex chief executive Vinny Codrington said: "We are delighted that Richard Johnson is coming back to join us and we would like to thank Somerset for the most amicable and professional way in which these negotiations have been carried out."

Somerset chief executive Richard Gould added: "We would like to thank Richard for all that he has done for the club during his six seasons at the County ground and wish him every success for the future."

Fellow seamer Chad Keegan has also signed a contract for next season with Middlesex.

Sri Lanka Test star Chaminda Vaas and Indian spinner Murali Kartik have also been recruited by Middlesex for 2007.