ACCRINGTON Stanley have signed defender Nick Anderton on loan from Blackpool.

The 22-year-old has joined the Reds until January and could make his debut in Stanley's League One clash at home to Charlton Athletic.

Anderton, a former Preston North End youngster, is keen to make his mark for John Coleman's side.

“There were a couple of clubs interested but the chance to play in League One and hopefully get regular games was a huge boost,” said Anderton.

“I played a few league games for Blackpool and played in the cup as well and probably made around 15 appearances last season,” said Anderton.

“Moving to Accrington is a great opportunity for me, I played regularly in non-league and the National League and, at 22, want to be playing more this season.”

Asked what the Stanley fans can expect, Anderton added: “I am defender first and foremost, I like to put my head in and keep the ball from going in the net.

“If there are set places, I do get forward but my first job is to keep them out.”

Anderton joined Blackpool last summer and has made 12 appearances for the Seasiders, including playing 90 minutes in the midweek win over Barnsley in the Carabao Cup first round.

The centre back hails from Preston and was with North End for five years, including two as a professional.

He spent time out on loan at Barrow, who he helped to lift the National League North title in 2015, but he suffered a broken leg in February of that year.

He also had spells at Aldershot and Gateshead before returning to Barrow in the National League. He signed permanently on a two-year deal before Blackpool snapped him up in 2017, one year into that contract.

Reds boss Coleman remains keen to further strengthen his squad with centre forward now the priority.

Stanley have seen Kayden Jackson depart for Ipswich this month and currently have Billy Kee, Offrande Zanzala and Andy Mangan as senior striking options.

Coleman could still make a move to bolster his defence despite the signing of Anderton. The Reds would be keen to bring Jimmy Dunne back for a second loan spell from Burnley after the Irishman impressed at the Wham Stadium last season.