91�ȱ�

Former Hearts defender Ryan McGowan has signed for Dundee United, subject to international clearance.

The 25-year-old Australia cap, who most recently played for Shandong Luneng Taishan in China, has agreed a deal until the end of the 2015-16 season.

McGowan told "It is great to be back in the Scottish Premiership and I'm excited about the challenge of being a United player."

The Australian spent seven years at Hearts before moving to China in 2013.

He played more than 50 games for the Tynecastle side and scored in the club's Scottish Cup final win over Hibernian in 2012.

"When I moved to Shandong Luneng Taishan, I believed I would return to Scottish football one day and for it to be here at Tannadice is fantastic," McGowan added.

"My time in China was a great experience, but I look at what we can achieve here at Dundee United this season and I want to play a part in helping the club reach its goals."

McGowan was part of Australia's World Cup squad in 2014 and set up Tim Cahill's stunning volley in the 3-2 defeat at the hands of the Netherlands.

He has a total of 12 caps for the Socceroos, having received his first call-up in 2012.

United manager Jackie McNamara told the club's website: "Ryan is a tough, strong and excellent footballer who will improve us defensively.

"He is a big lad who is strong in the air and this will impact in both defensive and attacking scenarios. He is a strong personality, which is important for me.

"I am delighted to be able to bring him to United because other clubs were after him.

"Players see our club as a great place to show off their talent and enjoy playing football."