Cobblers pair Morgan Roberts and Ethan Johnston make loan moves

Both are staying close to home though, with Roberts joining Brackley Town and Johnston making the switch to Kettering Town.

Both clubs play in the Vanarama National League North, with former Cobblers striker Kevin Wilkin the manager of Saints and Paul Cox in charge at Poppies.

Roberts, who is in the final year of the three-year contract he signed in the summer of 2018, has made 17 first team appearances for the club so far, with the most recent being in Tuesday night's 2-1 Papa John's Trophy win at Exeter City.

Johnston, whose contract also expires at the end of this season, has made just one substitute appearance in the 4-0 Carabao Cup loss at Bristol City in September.

"This is a good move for both players," said Cobblers boss Keith Curle.

"We hope this will give both of them an opportunity to play regular first team football over the coming weeks and will help their development.

"There are a lot of matches coming up for both clubs and having this opportunity is beneficial to both players.

"Going out on loan is an important part of a young player's development.

"You learn a lot playing with and against senior, experienced players in a first team environment where results matter, game in, game out and that's the plan for Morgan and Ethan.

"We will monitor the performances of both players closely and we wish them every success in these loan spells."

The players could be set to make their debuts this weekend, with Brackley taking on Blyth Spartans and the Poppies hosting AFC Telford United.

Roberts and Johnston are also likely to come up against each other as well, with both of the Northants derbies between the sides taking place over the festive season.

Boxing Day sees Brackley Town make the trip to Latimer Park, with the Poppies heading for St James' Park for the return on January 2.