Blackpool sign Newcastle youngster

Blackpool new-boy Liam Smith (Picture: @blackpoolfc)

The 20-year-old, who is yet to make a senior appearance in his career, will go straight into the squad to face Millwall on Saturday.

And manager Neil McDonald was full of praise for his new addition.

“He’s a ball playing midfielder with a good range of passing and I’m looking forward to working with him,” said McDonald.

“I’ve seen him on a couple of occasions and I’ve been impressed with what he can do.”

Smith, who will wear the number 22 shirt, is understood to be a creative midfielder, and McDonald hopes he can add a new dimension to his squad.

He said: “I just think we need a little bit more variety, and Liam can certainly handle the ball in tight situations and has got a good range of passing. Hopefully he complements the other midfield players that we’ve got and forces his way into the team.”