Now it really is done - Billy Sharp's free transfer to Hull City is official but there will be no fairytale debut at Hillsborough

The Sheffield United legend has joined as a free agent having been with LA Galaxy during the Major League Soccer season, and formally joined up after training with his new club on Wednesday morning.

But because the transfer window does not open until New Year's Day and because players have to be registered the day before a game, he will not be able to make his debut at Sheffield Wednesday on January 1.

Even so, the experience of a player with plenty of experience of winning promotions – most recently as Sheffield United captain last season – as well as his undoubted quality as the Championship's all-time top-scorer will lift the promotion-chasing club.

Hull are in the Championship’s play-off positions and finishing there is their target for the season.

"He's going to be a Hull City player on January 1," said coach Rosenior, confirming the rumours which were circulating on Tuesday.

"He's got a real hunger to prove himself at this level.

"I've spoken a lot about experience in big moments. We're going to have a lot of games with big pressure on it and Billy's had five promotions, (some) as captain as well.

"He scores crucial goals at crucial moments, and his goalscoring record at LA (six in 12 games) was top so were delighted to have him."

As well as three spells at Bramall Lane, the 37-year-old had three with Doncaster Rovers and also played for Leeds United amongst many others.

Read more from Rosenior about the qualities Sharp will bring on and off the field in Thursday’s Yorkshire Post.