Brad Lyons says he is ready for the challenge of League Two after signing for Morecambe on loan until the end of the season.

Before league action however, there is the small matter of an FA Cup tie at Chelsea on Sunday in which the Northern Irishman could make his debut for the Shrimps.

Lyons joins a strong crop of Rovers connections at the Globe Arena, with Stephen Hendrie, Sam Lavelle, Jordan Slew, John Sullivan and Yann Songo’o all on the clubs books.

The midfielder joins after a run of fine form for Rovers Under-23s side, scoring six times in his last six appearances, as they finished the calendar year second in the Premier League 2 standings.

But Rovers have been keen to get more of their young players out on loan, with 23-year-old Lyons heading the list, signing for Derek Adams’ side until the end of the season.

“I feel privileged to be here,” said Lyons. “Morecambe’s a good club that’s on the up and fighting for a place in the play-offs so I can’t wait to get started.

“Hopefully I can do well, help the club and maybe put myself in the spotlight.

“I know League Two is a very competitive league. I’ve watched loads of games at this level and it’s going to be physical.I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Morecambe face a plum FA Cup tie at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, with Lyons given permission to play by Rovers.

It is his second loan move away since signing from Coleraine in the summer of 2018, finishing that season with St Mirren.

Meanwhile, Harry Chapman's wait to make his Shrewsbury Town goes on after their FA Cup tie with Southampton was postponed following a Covid out break within the League One club. It follows the postponement of their league fixture with Crewe last weekend.

Both Lyons and Chapman have been nominated for the Premier League 2 player of the month for December.

Midfielder Lyons scored four times in three appearances, including his brace against Liverpool which temporarily sent Rovers top of the table.

Chapman scored twice in the win at Derby, and claimed an assist, as he did in the defeat to Tottenham.

Faustino Anjorin (Chelsea), Folarin Balogun (Arsenal), Lewis Bate (Chelsea), Nathan Tella (Southampton) and Harvey White (Tottenham Hotspur) complete the shortlist.