Peterborough have announced the signing of former Aston Villa goalkeeper Jed Steer on a short-term deal.

The 31-year-old was a free agent after departing Villa Park in the summer. He spent 10 years at the Midlands club.

Steer will provide cover for Peterborough’s goalkeeping department following an injury to Nicholas Bilokapic, who now faces a spell out of action.

Fynn Talley made his first league start in the 3-2 win against Derby on New Year’s Day in Bilokapic’s absence.

“It is a move that just makes common sense,” manager Darren Ferguson told the club’s official website.

“Nick is currently injured so we wanted to make sure we had cover in the goalkeeping position while he is unavailable, and Jed will come in and provide that short-term cover.

“Jed has good experience and he will challenge Fynn while he is with us.

“It is unfair on a very young goalkeeper (Jake West) to be on the bench at this moment in time. I am pleased that Jed is on board and am looking forward to working with him.”

Steer hasn’t made a competitive appearance since March 2, 2022 during a loan spell with Luton in the Championship. He has trained with “a number of clubs this season”.

The goalkeeper added: “I am really looking forward to coming in and helping the squad during this period.

“Obviously, the team are doing really well. You can see it is a brilliant environment to come into and I am excited to meet the rest of the squad and of course the GK union.

“I have probably risen the average age considerably as I know it is a young squad, but I will be here for everyone, pass on the experience and do all I can to help while I am with the football club.”

Peterborough currently sit third in the League One table, two points behind Wanderers, although Ferguson’s side have played an extra game at this stage.