Cobblers duo make loan moves to non-league clubs

Cobblers striker Ethan Johnston has joined Redditch United on loan while defender Jacob Ballinger has made a similar switch to St Ives.

Eighteen-year-old Johnston recently became the second player from the club's football & education programme to appear for the first team when he made his debut in the Carabao Cup tie at Bristol City.

Johnston, who signed his first pro deal earlier this year, has joined the Southern League side for the next month.

Ballinger, 19, is also a first-year professional and he will join up with U18s assistant coach Marc Richards at Southern League Premier Division Central side St Ives Town.

"Ethan and Jacob will benefit from the chance to play regular senior football," said manager Keith Curle.

"They will learn a lot from playing week in, week out in a first team environment, we will monitor their progress closely and it is part of their development plans to have a spell out on loan.

"We are sure the loan will benefit them both, and we hope in turn that Ethan and Jacob's performances benefit Redditch and St Ives."