Curtis in action for Blackburn

Sheffield United have signed John Curtis from Blackburn Rovers on loan - seeing off interest from Division One rivals Crystal Palace.

The 24-year-old has agreed a three-month deal which keeps him at Bramall Lane until 30 May.

The defender is expected to make his debut for the club when the Blades take on Grimsby on Tuesday.

But although Curtis is not cup-tied he is not eligible to play against Leeds in the FA Cup on Saturday due to the seven-day rule for loan signings.

He's got a great attitude and can play both full-back or centre-half Neil Warnock

"The opportunity came along to sign John and I had to make a quick decision at the weekend because Crystal Palace were interested," Blades boss Neil Warnock told the club's official website.

"I haven't guaranteed him a first-team place but he's got a great attitude and can play both full-back or centre-half which is a great help."

Curtis, a former Manchester United trainee who left Old Trafford just under three years ago after failing to force his way into Sir Alex Ferguson's first team, is happy with the move after losing his place at Rovers this season.

"Sheffield United are playing higher profile games, in the play-off race, it is just 45 minutes from my home in Manchester and I believe it is just a much better footballing move for me," said Curtis.

Meanwhile, Tommy Mooney has returned to Birmingham after United decided to terminate his loan deal.