United defender Dan Kirkup has joined Southport for a one month loan period this afternoon, and goes straight in to the Sandgrounders squad for the weekend.

The 19 year old Hexham born centre back earned himself a one year pro contract for this season, after coming through the Youth ranks at the club, and has become a regular in the Reserves with some excellent performances.

Manager Neil McDonald told us, "we are sending him down there to get some first team experience. It's a good time for him to join them as Southport are due to play Exeter and Oxford, two ex-Football League teams. Playing matches will be fantastic experience for him, and it should toughen him up."