NEWPORT County AFC have completed a third deadline day deal with the arrival of Aston Villa striker Harry McKirdy on loan for the rest of the season.

The 21-year-old started his career at Stoke City before switching to Villa Park in 2011.

McKirdy has yet to feature in Villa's first team but has previously enjoyed loan spells at League Two rivals Stevenage and Crewe Alexandra.

He scored three times in 16 appearances for the Railwaymen last season, including the opener in Crewe's win at Rodney Parade.

Exiles boss Michael Flynn told iFollow Exiles: "He's highly thought of at Aston Villa, got some great experience at Crewe last season and I am happy that it is over the line.

“He adds to our numbers up front and gives us some real strength in depth until the end of the season. I am very excited to be working with him."

Subject to clearance, McKirdy is available for selection for this weekend's trip to Grimsby Town and would be eligible to feature in County’s potential FA Cup fifth-round showdown with Manchester City.