Newport sign Clough from Rovers

Last updated : 28 September 2010 By BBC Sport

Newport County have bolstered their promotion drive with the recruitment of Charlie Clough on a one-month loan deal from Bristol Rovers.The versatile 20-year-old is seen as a holding midfielder, but the Welsh side are likely to use him in defence with Chris Todd out with a groin injury.

Clough, a product of Rovers' Centre of Excellence, has recently signed a new two-year contract at the club.

The 6ft, 12st youngster has had loan spells at Mangotsfield and Chippenham.

Newport manager Dean Holdsworth had indicated the need for extra squad numbers after Saturday's 1-0 win at Cambridge United took his side into the play-off spots.

"We continue to get the best out of our 17 players," he told BBC Sport Wales.

"I expect one to come in [this week] so that would help us with numbers.

"I can't tell you who until he signs but we need cover in defence. He'll be a player to help in the squad, everyone has to earn the right to the shirt."

The win in Cambridge was County's fourth in a row and the resurgent Welsh side are unbeaten in 10 matches.

"I'm delighted, especially if you look at Cambridge's home record," said Holdsworth ahead of Tuesday's visit of Forest Green.

"I want them to play with that belief and understand how much I trust them."

Sport Wales feature: Lisa Rogers on the clash of the Holdsworths

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport