Mulligan, aged 28, brings a wealth of experience with to Kiwitea Street, making over two hundred appearances in the English Football League between 2000 and 2008 for Barnsley (70 appearances), Doncaster Rovers (88), Scunthorpe United (29), Grimsby Town (7) & Port Vale (13).

With last season’s captain Ivan Vicelich signing a short term deal with Chinese Super League club Shenzhen Ruby, Mulligan’s experience at both international and club level will be vital for an Auckland side looking to reclaim NZFC and O-League titles.

Mulligan returned home to New Zealand in July 2008, signing a two-year deal with Wellington Phoenix in the A-League.

A versatile footballer, who can play in either midfield or defence, he has earned 25 international caps since debuting for New Zealand in 2002, scoring three goals, including a dramatic last-gasp winner against Vanuatu in a World Cup qualifier in Port Vila. He has also represented New Zealand at U-17, U-20 & U-23 level.

“We are delighted also to welcome David to Auckland City,” said Auckland City chairman Ivan Vuksich.

“He is an outstanding player with a huge amount of professional and international playing experience. His signing is not only great news for the club but will further add to the growing profile of the NZFC and the O-League.”

After a frustrating two seasons in Wellington, Mulligan was champing at the bit to get back on the field.

“I’ve not really played in two years so when Auckland made a move to bring me up here, I grabbed it.”

Mulligan was looking forward to getting to work with newly appointed coaches Ramon Tribulietx and Aaron McFarland having been lured to Kiwitea Steet by Auckland City chairman Ivan Vuksich.

“I spoke with Ivan Vuksich and he’s just so passionate about football and about the club. When you are in charge of a club like Auckland City you want to win everything, and when you have a relatively lean year like last season, it just makes you even hungrier.

Mulligan had not been approached about a formal leadership role within the side but said he would pass on as much of his experience as a professional footballer to Auckland’s young guard.

“Auckland have got a few good young players and I remember when I was coming through the ranks it was good to train with the experienced players and learn from the way they approached the game. I think if I go out there and do the best that I can then that sets a good example.