Words John Edwards

Neil Gibson has reacted swiftly and decisively to Altrincham's latest injury setback by landing highly-rated young striker Leo Farrell on loan from Barnsley until the New Year.

The 20-year old made his mark at Enterprise National League level during a productive loan spell at Scunthorpe United earlier this year and has joined us in time for tomorrow's 12.30pm kick-off against Aldershot Town at The J.Davidson Stadium (tickets here).

With Kane Hemmings picking up an injury early in the second half at Gateshead that is being assessed, and Kristian Dennis still gaining full fitness, Leo's timely arrival comes as a welcome boost for Alty gaffer Neil, who said:

"I'm really pleased to be able to bring a player of Leo's calibre into the club. He has already had considerable game time this season with Barnsley in EFL One and cup competitions, and he had a really successful loan spell with Scunthorpe before that, so he knows what our league is about and will be able to hit the ground running.

"He matches the profile of the type of player we want to bring into the club on a short-term loan. We hope to have an update on Kane soon, but with him picking up an injury and Kristian working his way back to fitness, it was important we strengthened in this particular area.

"Leo's profile is similar to Kane's, and he will be able to fill the gap in terms of the type of player we are missing in the squad. I've been really impressed with everything I've seen from him, and I'm really looking forward to working with him during his time with us.

"I think he will be a perfect fit and will bring real strength in that area of the pitch, which is something I felt we needed after Kane picked up his injury."

A bustling, powerful forward who describes himself as an “old‑fashioned number nine”, the Halifax-born striker underlined his eye for goal in loan spells with Guiseley and Scunthorpe.

Still in his teens when he headed to Nethermoor Park, he scored seven goals in 15 appearances for Guiseley, and when he stepped up a level at Scunthorpe shortly after his 20th birthday, he took the challenge in his stride with four goals and an assist in seven outings for Andy Butler's side.

Back at Oakwell, he endeared himself to Barnsley fans by going on as substitute in a League One clash with Bradford City in April and salvaging a 2-2 draw for his side with a smart close-range finish at the near post in the sixth minute of stoppage time.

Now he's all set to pull on an Alty shirt, in a move that will last until early January, and after being put through his paces at our Egerton training centre, he spelled out his eagerness to make a favourable impression.

"I'm really excited to be here, and I'm looking forward to showing the Alty fans what I can do," he said, "It's been good to meet all the lads and the coaching staff and get a training session under my belt, and it's now all about being ready for Saturday and Aldershot."

A warm welcome to The J.Davidson Stadium, Leo, and here's wishing you every success in your time with the Robins.