Patrick Hoban has put pen to paper at Oxford United, but will have to watch for six weeks before his debut.

The Irish striker last night agreed an 18-month contract with the U’s, who have the option of an additional season, just hours after the club finalised a deal to sign Chey Dunkley from Kidderminster Harriers.

But while the centre back is likely to be named in United’s squad for tomorrow’s home game against AFC Wimbledon, Hoban’s debut will not come until the new year.

Although he has just become a free agent after helping Dundalk to the league title in Ireland, United will not be able to secure international clearance until the transfer window opens.

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The 23-year-old, who scored 19 league goals last season, said: “It is frustrating in a way because you just want to play matches.

“You miss it a day after winning the league, but I have to wait and I’ll just get myself in perfect condition to come back in January.”

He added: “Nothing’s ever guaranteed but my record in the last two years has been quite good for Dundalk, so I just want to improve here as a player.”

By comparison, Dunkley’s move, which involved Sam Long joining Kidderminster on loan until January, was far simpler.

The centre back has joined on a loan deal which is set to become a permanent deal lasting until summer 2017 when the transfer window re-opens in the new year.

He said: “It’s a good move. Obviously it’s returning to league football after being released by Crewe (as a youngster), but I’m over the moon the gaffer has taken a chance on me.

“It’s a big club, I’m sure they are striving for big things and trying to get into League One – that’s the aim.”

The moves were the first products of the club’s recruitment department since it was revamped this season.

Dunkley was scouted in more than ten games, while Hoban was watched five times, which included assistant head coach Derek Fazackerley flying to Ireland for a closer look.

Although the two players will bring very different attributes to the squad, Appleton felt they have something crucial in common.

He said: “The biggest thing for me is we want to try and recruit players who are hungry to succeed.

“I think the two players who have walked into the building have that real hunger and desire.

Despite reports in the north-east last night, United have not signed Jarrow Roofing striker John Campbell.

They are among several clubs interested in the 25-year-old, who played a trial game last week, but nothing has been finalised.

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