Steve Harper has signed a short-term deal to join Sunderland until the end of the season, the club announced on Friday evening.
Sam Allardyce had been on the look out for a goalkeeper to Costel Pantilimon left the North East for Watford during the week.
The Black Cats manager emphasised that fact in his pre-match comments ahead of their massive game against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday.
An understated career
Harper, of course, is a hugely experienced goalkeeper who has been involved at the top level of English football for well over a decade and a half.
He spent 20 years with Newcastle United - Sunderland's arch-rivals - and became their longest-serving players in 2012.
Despite his longevity and incredibly impressive dedication, Harper was largely used as a back-up to Shay Given and Tim Krul.
That meant he made just 157 appearances, excluding his various loan spells, while at St. James' Park.
A back-up role with Sunderland
Most recently with Hull City, Harper will play as third choice 'keeper while with the Stadium of Light outfit in what will be brief spell.
Whilst speaking to the media on Friday, Allardyce also confirmed that Vito Mannone would remain number one until his performances forced a switch.
This comes after Jordan Pickford put in two fine displays in defeats to Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
There could be a mentoring role for Harper to play in Pickford's development, meaning the 40-year-old will be playing his part on and off the pitch.
Big Sam has his say
Speaking to the club website on Harper's arrival, Allardyce was pleased to have brought in the veteran stopper, “Steve will be a positive addition to our goalkeeping stable."
The Sunderland boss added, "He has vast experience at the top level and that can only be beneficial to Vito and Jordan as they continue to develop.
"He knows the club well and, as an Easington lad born and bred, he needs no introduction to Sunderland,” concluded Allardyce.