Hartlepool United can confirm defender Louis Stephenson has joined Blyth Spartans on a short-term loan deal.

The 18-year-old has made 26 senior appearances for Pools, six of which coming this campaign.

The right-back will now head to Croft Park on a short-term loan ahead of Blyth’s Northern Premier League fixture against Stockton Town tonight.

Head of Football Operations, Joe Monks, stated:

“Louis has done very well when playing for our first team but with the return of Dan Dodds in the right-back position, it would be selfish of us to prevent Louis playing regular first team football.

“Playing matches is key for his development and going to Blyth on a short-term basis will give him the chance to play regularly at a competitive standard and keep him sharp for when he comes back into the first team squad later this season.

“As with our other Academy-grown loan players, Louis will continue to train with the first team on a daily basis.”