Sligo Rovers have completed the signing of Accrington Stanley midfielder Niall Watson on loan until the end of the League of Ireland season, subject to international clearance.

The 19-year-old makes the temporary switch to the Bit O’ Red having featured against us in a friendly for his parent club in The Showgrounds.

He made his debut for Stanley against Exeter 18 months ago and signed his first professional deal last year.

Watson has been part of their pre-season preparations this year and has featured throughout their friendly games.

Liam Buckley said: “It’s important to firm up the squad from our end. Liam Kerrigan is moving on so we have to be mindful of that and replace him.

“Niall came on in the friendly game we had earlier in the month. He’s a young player looking to make an impact.

“He is more likely to get game time here than in Accrington at this point and it suits us to take him in for the next few months. I spoke with John Coleman and it’s a good move for all parties.

“He has been involved with Accrington’s first-team and at a couple of non-league clubs.

“He can play in an attacking role on the left or right, so we’ll give him a chance in training to impress and force a way into the side.

“In terms of other signings, the market is not favourable at this time of year in Ireland but we remain in the hunt.

“We’re exploring things but it has to be a player that is really going to improve us. I won’t sign someone if it isn’t right for us. There’s less than two weeks left we’ll see how things go.”

Niall Watson said: “When I was in Sligo for the friendly I could see what a good club it is so when the gaffer (John Coleman) mentioned their interest I was delighted.

“He told me more about them too so now I’m really excited. I had three loan spells last year and I’m ready to keep playing. There’s still a lot of games to be played in the season in Ireland.

“It’s a great experience for me to move over and become part of a club like Sligo Rovers, I’m really up for it. I can play anywhere across a front three, I probably prefer the left side.

“Whatever the gaffer says I’ll be up for it. I’m looking forward to getting involved straight away and meet everyone on Tuesday.”