It is the first time the towering hitman has joined a Scottish club after spending his entire career south of the border, and he is excited by the challenge of the SPL.

Kyle could make his debut in the first match at St Mirren's new stadium.

He said: "I'm now looking forward to the next 18 months. I can't wait to get started and it's a great game to start with as St Mirren are opening their new stadium.

"It'll be a good atmosphere and hopefully the result will go Kilmarnock's way.

"I noticed at the beginning of the season Killie were doing really well but lately they've had a bad run of results but they're only four points off sixth place.

"Hopefully, we can get a win on Saturday, pick up and get back into the top six.

"I'm just looking forward to playing football. I was offered better deals elsewhere but I wanted to come here as it's a good opportunity to play.

"The thought of playing against Rangers and Celtic, as a Scot, you want to test yourself against teams like that.

"It didn't work out for me at Coventry but now I'v got a fresh start at Kilmarnock."

Killie assistant manager Billy Brown believes Kyle will be a major asset for the Rugby Park outfit.

He said: "We've been looking at Kevin for a long time. He's a good experienced player, gives us a physical presence and a few goals we hope.

"He's 6ft 3in and you don't play in England, at the level he has, unless you can handle yourself physically.

"We've got great hopes for him and he's delighted to be here and we're delighted to have him.

"He's only 27, so he's coming up to his peak. There's still a lot in front of him. He did do well at Sunderland, he's played in the Premier League.

"He wants to come back to Scotland and he's looking forward to the challenge."