Middlesbrough's Alex Baptiste joins Sheffield United on loan

Alex Baptiste has joined Sheffield United on a three-month loan deal from Middlesbrough.

The 30-year-old joined Boro from Bolton Wanderers last summer but has not yet made an appearance for the club as he suffered a double leg fracture in pre-season last summer.

"We are delighted to be able to bring Alex in," Blades manager Nigel Adkins told the club's official website. "He's a vastly experienced performer who can operate in a number of positions.

"Following an injury, he is now fit and raring to go and will make a valuable contribution in the remaining months of the season."

Baptiste is available to make his debut in tonight's League One match against Burton Albion.