ACCRINGTON Stanley defender Tom Aldred has signed for Championships strugglers Blackpool.

The defender has joined the Seasiders on an initial 28-day emergency loan but a permanent deal, for an undisclosed fee, is expected to be completed before Monday night's transfer deadline.

Aldred, who was out of contract at the Store First Stadium in the summer, goes straight into Blackpool's squad for their match with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.

The 24-year-old joined Stanley in 2013 and, prior to missing Tuesday night's defeat to Bury, had completed every minute of 92 consecutive games for the Reds.

Aldred, who counts Carlisle and Watford among his former clubs, will link up with former Stanley coach Paul Stephenson who is now on the staff at Blackpool.

Of the move Aldred, who scored four goals for Stanley, said: “After having various moves as a young player I definitely need to stabilise my career.
 
“I know Stepho obviously from Accrington, he's a good coach so I'm happy to link back up with him.
 
“I'd like to call myself a steady central defender and consistency is key."