Sligo Rovers boss John Russell has reacted to a defensive injury crisis by snapping up Cheltenham Town defender Reece Hutchinson on-loan until the end of June.
The 22-year-old comes in after knocks sustained by Garry Buckley and recent signing Gary Boylan.
Birmingham-born Hutchinson made 43 League One appearances at Burton Albion before moving to Cheltenham in 2021.
Russell said: “I’m delighted to sign Reece on a loan deal until July.
“When Gary Boylan suffered his injury, it was important we brought in another full back to add quality and depth to our group.
“Reece is an attacking full back who comes to us with a lot of experience at League One level in England.
“I know from our conversations he is excited by the challenge ahead and we’re all looking forward to working with him”
Hutchinson could make his first Sligo Rovers appearance in tomorrow evening’s friendly against Wexford at The Showgrounds.
He said: “I’m really excited to be here. As soon as I heard of an opportunity to come abroad and play in Ireland I wanted to get it done as soon as possible.
“I spoke with John and he has big ambitions for the club as well as me for the season ahead.
“I want to perform at a high level and this is the perfect platform for me to progress in my career.
“I hope to show the fans here what I am all about and bring plenty of success going forward.”