Leeds United have added experienced goalkeeper Maik Taylor to their squad on a short-term deal.

The 40-year-old, who made his 88th appearance for Northern Ireland last month when he captained them against Italy, has joined the club until January.

He is now the fifth goalkeeper on Leeds’ books along with on loan Alex McCarthy, injured Andy Lonergan, out-of-favour Paul Rachubka and youngster Alex Cairns. Taylor will provide experienced back-up for McCarthy, who has started Leeds’ last two games, both of them wins, against Leicester and Burnley.

Boss Simon Grayson is pleased to have the former Birmingham keeper on board.

He said: “Maik is an experienced goalkeeper who has been without a club since the summer.

“He’s been training with us for a couple of weeks now and he’s a good addition for us. With the loan window closing now you have to make sure you are covered.”

Taylor should go straight into the squad for Saturday’s home match with Barnsley.

Leeds could go level on points with third-placed Cardiff or out of the play-offs altogether depending on results tomorrow.

Barnsley’s last win at Elland Road came back in 1990, while they have only one win on the road in their last seven games, although Leeds are without a win in their last three home matches.

Defender Aidy White admits his side were below par in last weekend’s win at Burnley, but is hopeful or recording a third successive victory tomorrow.

He said: “We didn’t play to our potential.

“We are a better team than that, but to get promotion and bigger things, you have to win games you don’t always deserve to.

“We’ll look forward to Saturday now when we know we can play a lot better.

“They (Barnsley) are a good team, but if we put in a good performance I’m sure we can get the three points.”

Meanwhile, former Leeds loanee Sanchez Watt has joined Sheffield Wednesday on loan until January 16.

The Arsenal forward scored one goal in 32 appearances for Leeds during two loan spells.