Portadown boss Ronnie McFall decided to off-load Collins

Flynn captured the 30-year-old who had also been linked with Coleraine, Ballymena United, Donegal Celtic and Eircom League club Bohemians.

Collins' poor disciplinary record let Ports manager Ronnie McFall to take the decision to off-load the player.

The midfielder will not be able to line out for Newry until January while other signings are also in the pipeline.

Newry boss Flynn played alongside Collins in the Cliftonville team that won the 1998 Irish League title.

"When I approached the club's board to discuss the possibility of signing Mickey, there was never any mention of his discipline. I wanted him for his talent and that's what the board recognised too," said Flynn.

"He's consistently been one of the best midfielders in the Premier League for the past 10 years and I have no doubt that form will continue.

"We have signed him on a long-term deal because we have long-term plans. I am delighted that he chose Newry City ahead of the many teams chasing him."

Further Newry signings are likely during the January transfer window while departures are also on the cards.

"I'm not under any pressure to release players because of Mickey's arrival but there will be players going because I have plans to bring more in," explained Flynn.

"I know the players I want and the type of team of I want and that means there will be changes."

Flynn is hoping to hold on to loan signing Stephen Garrett but Linfield have yet to indicate whether they will agree a permanent deal.

Out-of-favour Derry City striker Gary Beckett is also being linked with a move to Newry although Coleraine, Cliftonville and Donegal Celtic are also believed to be interested in the player.