Signed by Mark Hughes in July 2009 on a one-year contract after being released by Aston Villa, he made his City debut in the FA Cup at Scunthorpe on January 24, 2010 but his season was curtailed by knee surgery that left him unavailable when Shay Given was injured at Arsenal. Nevertheless, he signed a new two-year deal in July 2010.

Romford-born Taylor joined Arsenal as a youngster and spent eight years there, picking up a Premier League winner's medal with the Gunners in 2001-02 when he was sent on late in the final match by Arsene Wenger to qualify with ten appearances.

Taylor played for the England Under-20 team at the 1999 World Youth Championships alongside Ashley Cole, Peter Crouch and Andy Johnson. His appearances at Villa were restricted but he saved a Wayne Rooney penalty. 

The arrival of Taylor, who earned three caps for England Under-21s, meant strong competition as well as experienced cover for Republic of Ireland goalkeeper and No.1 choice Shay Given with Joe Hart being able to join Birmingham on a season's loan.

Stuart made 30 senior appearances for Arsenal and spent loan spells at Bristol Rovers, Crystal Palace, Peterborough and Leicester before a £1million move to Villa in 2005. He had a spell on loan at Cardiff in his last season at The Emirates Stadium.

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