NEWPORT County AFC have made a second signing on transfer deadline day with the arrival of attacking midfielder Ben Kennedy on loan from League Two rivals Stevenage.

A product of Stevenage's youth academy, Kennedy has made more than 130 first team appearances for Boro and scored 31 goals in the process.

The 22-year-old, who has represented Northern Ireland up to under-21 level, has made 25 appearances so far this season and scored six times.

Exiles boss Michael Flynn said: "It's a great bit of business for us. He's a player I have always liked, every time he has played against us, he has caused us problems.

“He always chips in with a few goals, he likes assisting and creating goals as well. This is a very, very important signing for us."

Kennedy told iFollow Exiles: "I am delighted to get it all done. The manager gave me a lot of positives about the club.

“It's a fresh challenge for me and I can't wait to get started.

"I want to help the team climb back up the table. I'd like to say I am a very versatile player, I like to work hard for the team off the ball, create chances and make things happen."

Subject to clearance, Kennedy will be available for selection for Saturday’s League Two trip to Grimsby Town.

Stevenage chairman Phil Wallace told their official website: “Ben has got another year left on his contract but made it clear he wanted a move away.

"He has been with us since he was 16, coming to us from Northern Ireland and he wants to move on next season to further his career.

“This is a loan deal at his specific request until the end of the season, which we have reluctantly agreed to.

"We could have stood him down but he has given us great service over the last six years and so we will see how things look again at the end of the season.”