Swindon Town have confirmed the signing of favourite son Charlie Austin after weeks of speculation.

Having departed Australian side Brisbane Roar earlier this month, both media and fans alike have suggested that the veteran English striker could return to Swindon.

The 33-year-old striker made his Football League breakthrough with Town, spending two goal-laden years at the County Ground between 2009 and 2011 and becoming a firm fan favourite.

And supporters' dreams were realised this week as it was confirmed that Austin would indeed be returning to Wiltshire.

An interview with Austin on Sky Sports News on Wednesday evening confirmed the news.

Now the club have officially announced that he will sign for the League Two outfit until the 2022/23 season concludes.

In his previous spell at the club, Austin bagged an impressive 37 goals in 65 games in all competitions, demonstrating just how prolific he was in front of goal from a young age.

Since leaving Town, Austin went on to play in both the Premier League and Championship with clubs such as Burnley, Queens Park Rangers and Southampton.

After a stint playing for West Bromwich Albion and a return to QPR, the striker made the bold move to join Australian side Brisbane Roar in the summer of this year.

Despite enjoying his time in Oz, Austin decided to cut short his stay earlier this month as he and the club announced that he would return to the UK, citing family reasons as the main driving factor.

Austin told the Adver: “I’ve been on the other side of the world so coming back at Christmas time feels like I’m coming home of course.

“The club has changed in different ways but it’s still the same pretty much as it was when I was here last time.”

Town’s new striker was also excited to be back playing his game in England, stating that the country is the pinnacle of football around the world.

“I think the UK game is faster and that is the way it is and football in the UK is the pinnacle if you ask me,” Austin told the Adver.

“Everyone wants to come to the UK and play so I’m looking forward to coming and playing back here. I’ve played 90 per cent of my career here so I’m excited just to get started.”

Austin is no stranger to the current Swindon squad having met several of them over the years through the beautiful game and is looking forward to linking up with them.

“I know Jonny [Williams] through football and I’ve played with Glads [Ben Gladwin], so it’s going to be exciting,” he told the Adver.

“I feel like I can be another experienced head in there and help the team guide the younger players.”

As a free agent, Austin was snapped up by Swindon who find themselves in the search for goals as they face a battle for promotion.

Scott Lindsey’s side have won as many as they have lost in their past four games with both the fans and the manager himself hoping that Austin’s striking quality can settle the inconsistency of results.

The Town manager said: “I’m delighted to have Charlie onboard and this is a really top signing for the football club.

“His career speaks for itself and he’s a natural goalscorer with a lot still to offer.

“His experience both on and off the pitch will be invaluable and play a key part in driving us forward for the remainder of the season.”

Swindon next play on New Year's Day, facing Colchester in a League Two encounter away at the Colchester Community Stadium.

Kick-off is set for 3pm and Lindsey’s men will hope to build on the fantastic 2-1 victory against Northampton Town on Thursday night.