Striker James Beattie returns to Sheffield United

Beattie has not scored for his last two clubs, Rangers and Blackpool

Sheffield United have re-signed former England striker James Beattie on a short-term deal until mid-January.

The 33-year-old, who is a free agent after leaving Rangers in the summer, has been training with the League One Blades for the past week.

Beattie scored 34 goals in 65 games during his previous spell at Bramall Lane between 2007 and 2009.

Beattie told the club's website: "I am delighted to be back. Sheffield United is a club that is close to my heart."

He added: "I was at the game on Saturday (against Carlisle) and the fans were singing my name which was nice."

Beattie also had a spell training with Bournemouth earlier this month.

The former Blackburn, Southampton, Everton, Stoke and Blackpool man has not played a game since May and not scored since October 2009.