Irish centre forward Graham Cummins became Preston North End's final January transfer window signing only hours before the clock struck 11pm.

The 24-year-old put pen to paper on two-and-a-half year deal which will keep him at Deepdale until June 2014.

Moving across the Irish sea from Cork City for an undisclosed fee, Cummins started his career at fellow Irish club Cobh Ramblers in 2006, gaining promotion as First Division champions in his second season finishing with 11 league goals.

Cobh's first season in the Irish top flight ended in relegation which resulted in Cummins joining Waterford United.

The fiery striker enjoyed great success in his only season at the club scoring 17 league goals as Waterford went on to win the Munster Senior Cup.

His reputation in Ireland continued to grow and his form earned Cummins a move to Cork City in March 2010.

In a record breaking season, Cummins became the first ever City player to score more than 20 league goals in one season.

It was this type of form which earned Cummins a call up to the Republic of Ireland U23 squad in September 2010, playing the full 90 minutes on his debut against Estonia.

Attracting the interest of a host of clubs in England, Cummins continued his red hot form in front of goal scoring 42 times in 64 appearances for the Leesiders.

During a two-year spell, he helped the club win the First Division title and has been voted the Irish PFA's Player of the Year for the past two seasons.

Long-time admirer Graham Westley won the race for his signature on 31st January 2012 as Cummins departed Cork to join North End.

Leaving Ireland with a proud scoring record and a cabinet full of winners medals, Cummins will be hoping to replicate his success in England and fire in the goals which take the Lilywhites back to Championship.