Accrington Stanley have added to their defensive ranks with the loan signing of Blackburn Rovers youngster Matty Platt.

The 20-year-old central defender will enjoy his first taste of EFL football during his time at the Wham Stadium after agreeing a season-long loan deal. 

Platt has been at Ewood Park since the age of nine and will add competition to the Stanley backline which lost Janoi Donacien this week as he joined Ipswich Town.

And Platt, who impressed in his three Checkatrade Trophy outings for Tony Mowbray's side last season, can't wait to get going. 

“I am delighted to sign and looking forward to getting going,” he said.

“I had a brief spell at Barrow a couple of seasons ago in the Conference but, apart from that, this is my first spell away from Blackburn.

“It’s a big stage, I have come here to play first team football in League One and hopefully I will do that.

“We will be looking to do well this season, the aim is to get into the play-offs and hopefully get promoted.”

Platt played a key role in helping Rovers win the Premier League 2 Division Two title last season.

And when asked what the Stanley fans can expect, he added: “First and foremost I am a defender, I like to tackle, but I also think I have another side to my game, I like to play, I can pass the ball well and find midfielders.”

Platt will hope to feature in tomorrow's League One opener as Stanley host Gillingham. 

He said: “I had a brief look at the first couple of fixtures, it’s happened quickly but hopefully I will settle in.

“I didn’t know many of the lads but I am sure over the coming days I will get to know them.

“It’s a goal of mine to play first team football and I can’t wait to get going.”