OXFORD United have signed Cameron Gayle on a short-term contract to provide much-needed defensive cover.

The 22-year-old full back, who can also play at centre half, made 33 appearances to help Shrewsbury Town win automatic promotion from Sky Bet League Two.

But he was released in the summer and has spent the last six weeks training with United, appearing for the development team against Nuneaton Town on Tuesday.

Gayle has agreed a 28-day contract, which was completed by noon today, meaning he is eligible for United’s Emirates FA Cup first round tie at Braintree Town on Sunday.

It will help head coach Michael Appleton, whose defensive resources are stretched.

Chey Dunkley is suspended and fellow centre half Jake Wright is a doubt with a back injury, while Sam Long is recovering from ankle ligament damage and Aidan Hawtin is on loan at Brackley Town.

Appleton coached Gayle in the youth team at West Bromwich Albion which included United top scorer Kemar Roofe and hopes, barring any last-minute hitches, the short-term arrangement will suit all parties.

Speaking before he signing was finalised, Appleton said: “I think it’s a no-brainer.

“The good thing is he’s been in with us for probably about six weeks already, just training and keeping fit, weighing up his options.

“I did say I was quite happy with him coming in and if at any point there was an opportunity, we would look to do it.

“But when he first came in there wasn’t, certainly from a budget point of view.

“We don’t want to be wasting too much time and money – and I mean that with the greatest respect – on players who would possibly only come in as squad players.

“But I think from a very shortterm point of view it fills a couple of holes for us.”

Gayle’s arrival should also help United during a busy month which includes Wednesday’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy area quarter-final at Dagenham & Redbridge.

There are also four Sky Bet League Two games, plus a potential FA Cup replay and, if the U’s beat Braintree, the second round on December 7.