Leeds United have completed the signing of defender Alan Tate from Swansea and midfielder Jerome Thomas from West Brom on loan until January.

Tate, 30, teamed up with his new team-mates today and, with Jason Pearce still suspended, is expected to go straight into the side for Saturday’s clash against manager Neil Warnock’s former club Crystal Palace at Elland Road.

“He’s a lad who I’ve always enjoyed playing against,” said Warnock. “He’s a leader and I felt these last few weeks we’ve lacked leaders. It’s great to have him in.

“We’re short on bodies in there, Jason is suspended, so he’ll play on Saturday. He’s got a great attitude and it’s a super club for him.”

Tate, who has made four appearances for Swansea in the top flight this season, began his career at Manchester United before sealing a permanent move to Swansea in February 2004 following two loan spells.

He has made a total of 325 appearances for the Welsh club.

Leeds later completed the signing of Baggies midfielder Thomas.

Warnock revealed that Thomas was a long-time target of his.

“He’s a player I’ve tried to sign five times so it’s about time I finally got him,” said Warnock.

"He is just what I’m looking for and I want him to come here and enjoy himself.

“He’s direct and positive when he’s attacking and fits the bill as just what we want.”

Former Arsenal trainee Thomas has made over 200 career appearances for QPR, Portsmouth, Charlton and West Brom.

The £52million takeover of Leeds was finally agreed on Wednesday after seven months of negotiations.

The club now need a boost on the pitch against the high-flying Eagles after picking up only one point from five Championship games.