21-year-old defender Tony Kane has joined United on-loan from Blackburn Rovers until the end of the season this morning, and goes straight in to the squad for tonight's game.

Kane, a Northern Ireland U21 international, moved to Ewood Park as a schoolboy and progressed through the Academy ranks to play regularly for the Reserves.

He signed a one-year contract extension with Blackburn last February, and has spent time on loan with Stockport County (twice) and Cercle Brugge whilst registered as a pro.

Greg Abbott said: "He's come to us highly recommended and we're pleased that we've got him.

"I have seen him play, Dennis has seem him twice, Eric has worked very closely with him and I have also spoken to Glynn Hodges, who worked with him at Blackburn, and heard some excellent things about the lad.

"The references coming in about him, as both a player and a person, are exactly what you want to hear and this is one that we hope will develop in to a permanent deal. He's a very good athlete, he uses the ball well and he can cover right across the defence. That's important when you take in to account the fact that Danny Livesey has an injury that isn't as straightforward as we hoped, as he can step in to that position if needed.

"Hopefully he will come here and enjoy his football and develop himself further with us."

We'll have reaction from the new signing later today.