LONDON, Jan 4 - Former Italy striker Vincenzo Montella has joined Fulham on loan from AS Roma until the end of the season, the two clubs said on Thursday.

The 32-year-old, a key player in the championship-winning side of 2000-01, scored 83 goals in 180 games for Roma and three goals in 19 appearances for the Azzurri.

Famous in Italy for his arms-outstretched 'aeroplane' goal celebration, a recurring shoulder injury has kept Montella out of action for long periods in the past year.

Even when fit, the preference of Roma coach Luciano Spalletti for a lone striker has often left him on the bench.

The Italian told Fulham's website (www.fulhamfc.com): "It has been an ambition of mine to play in England at some point in my career and I am happy to be given the opportunity.

"For me, I just want to play football and score goals, so I am looking forward to being able to do that with Fulham as soon as possible."

Montella's most memorable Roma performance came in March 2002 when he scored four times in a 5-1 demolition of city rivals Lazio.