A done deal at last: Brandon Williams signs for Rotherham United

A 117-day wait came to an end today as former Premier League youngster Brandon Williams finally became a Rotherham United player.

The left-back, who made more than 50 appearances for Manchester United earlier in his career, had been on trial with the Millers through the summer and had then continued to train with them even though no contract offer was on the table.

That changed this week, and the 26-year-old has now signed a short-term deal that ties him to AESSEAL New York Stadium until January 23.

"I'm really pleased he's a Rotherham player," said boss Alex Bruce. "He deserves the contract. He's worked really, really hard with us since pre-season. He's shown a great attitude. He's shown an appetite and a hunger to come in every day without getting paid."

The League Two Millers have acted because injuries have left them short on the left flank, with Ewan Otoo out of action for a prolonged period and Fabio Tavares sidelined for the rest of the season.

Williams was a rising star at Old Trafford and also had loan spells with Norwich City and Ipswich Town before well-publicised off-the-field problems that led to a suspended jail sentence and derailed his progress.

When a move to Hull City didn't work out, he pitched up at Rotherham's Roundwood base on June 29 for the start of pre-season of the season and, apart from a short spell working out with Rochdale, has been there pretty much ever since.

"I think he's had to face the reality of that's where his life was at," Bruce said. "I know Brandon from my connections to the Manchester area. I've come across him a few times. I know people who've worked with him at Man United as teammates and coaches.

"Steve McClaren and Richard Hartis know him as well. He looks a hell of a lot better than what he did when he first arrived for pre-season, that's for sure. Let's hope he can kick on now and he can be an asset to the club.

"Let's not lose sight of where he's been and what kind of career he's had, even though he's still a young lad. I'm really pleased to give him the opportunity to hopefully kick-start his career."

Head of football McClaren and goalkeeper coach Hartis both spent years working for Manchester United in the past.

When asked why the Millers have decided to push the button after nearly fourth months, Bruce replied: "A lot of factors really - the fact that injuries have happened, just things falling into place, really.

"Ewan has been unfortunate in getting injured, and the injury is going to take longer than we first thought. We're a little bit short in the left-back area. With Brandon being here training, it's just fitted into place nicely.

With their head coach moving towards a back four rather than a back three, Rotherham's need for another full-back became more acute.

"I think that Brandon knows that this is a big opportunity for him," Bruce said. "It's just a case of him getting back and playing football again."

Williams featured in all seven of the Millers' summer friendlies but hasn't played in a competitive game since August last year.