Bolton make fresh defensive signing ahead of Charlton Athletic clash

Bolton announced the signing of Newcastle United defender Alex Murphy on loan for the rest of the season ahead of Tuesday’s game against Charlton.

The 20-year-old will be available for selection by Ian Evatt for the League One match-up at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.

Republic of Ireland U21 international Murphy has made two appearances for the Premier League side.

“We’ve been chasing him since pre-season and we tried to get him in then but we couldn’t do it at that point,” assistant boss Stephen Cairney told BBC Radio Manchester.

“He brings competition to that left side. He’s a good young player and highly thought of at Newcastle, so hopefully he can come in and hit the ground running.

“We want competition and players to perform and keep their place and he adds strength to the group.”

PICTURE: ALAMY