Nottingham Forest sign Billy Sharp and James Coppinger on loan

Nottingham Forest completed the deadline day loan signings of Southampton striker Billy Sharp and Doncaster midfielder James Coppinger.

Sharp, 26, will stay at the City Ground until the end of the season with a view to a permanent move.

The former Sheffield United forward only joined Southampton from Doncaster for £1.8m in January.

Friday's loan deal for 31-year-old Coppinger, who spent four years at Newcastle, will run until January 2013.

Forest owner Fawaz Al Hasawi ‏tweeted: "I'm honoured to announce that striker Billy Sharp is to spend the rest of the season on loan with us from Southampton. Come on you Reds.

"Welcome to the City Ground to James Coppinger who has joined us on loan from Doncaster."

Rovers boss Dean Saunders told the club's website: "I didn't want to lose Copps but these sorts of things happen in football - we have to move on.

"I was aware that this type of thing could happen right up to the deadline.

"I have got plans in motion that, when I can, will allow me to add to the squad further."