Rotherham United have signed former Manchester United left-back Brandon Williams ahead of Saturday's League Two game at home to Shrewsbury Town.
Williams is a free agent having been released by Hull City last winter.
He trained with the Millers during pre-season and there was interest in him, but priorities were elsewhere as they juggled their budget. Now, though, circumstances have aligned.
This week it was announced that left wing-back or centre-back Ewan Otoo had undergone surgery.
"I'm really pleased he's a Rotherham player," said coach Alex Bruce. "He deserves the contract. He's worked really hard with us since pre-season. He's shown a great attitude. He's shown an appetite and a hunger to come in every day without getting paid."
Williams career has floundered since he was involved in a car crash that saw him charged with dangerous driving and driving without insurance in 2023.
Released by Manchester United at the end of his contract in 2024, the 26-year-old has made one substitute appearance since, in a 3-0 Hull defeat at home to Blackburn Rovers.
"I think he's had to face the reality of that's where his life was at," Bruce said. "I know Brandon from my connections to the Manchester area. I've come across him a few times. I know people who've worked with him at Man United as teammates and coaches.
"(Head of football) Steve McClaren and (coach) Richard Hartis know him as well. He looks a hell of a lot better than what he did when he first arrived for pre-season, that's for sure.
"Let's hope he can kick on now and he can be an asset to the club."
Williams has signed a short-term contract until January 23.