Sunderland forward Roy O'Donovan has joined Scottish Premier League side Dundee United on a season-long loan deal.

The 22-year-old Ireland B international is likely to be in the Terrors squad to face Hamilton on Monday.

O'Donovan had only joined the Black Cats from Cork City in August 2007, but now moves on while Roy Keane is still looking to bring in new faces before the closure of the summer transfer window.

United boss Craig Levein said: "He is a very direct player with lots of pace and is a natural and proven scorer.

"Although Roy can play wide right and midfield, I see him as a striker and I'm sure he'll be a big success in the SPL. I'm also certain that United supporters will enjoy seeing him play for the team."