Curle thrilled after Cobblers beat off competition to land 'tricky' and 'pacey' Marshall

Marshall became Town's first addition of the January transfer window when penning a short-term contract on Saturday.

The 32-year-old was released by League One Gillingham on Thursday and will be available for Tuesday's visit of Scunthorpe United in Sky Bet League Two.

He'll be cup-tied for the FA Cup replay at Derby County next week but his addition adds depth to the squad and gives Curle another option.

On why he signed Marshall, Curle said: "Mark is a player we are delighted to have been able to bring in as he has a lot of interest from clubs in a higher division.

"He is a player with pace, trickery, a strong work ethic and he is a player the supporters will enjoy watching.

"As supporters will know, he has the ability to take players on, to create chances for others and to get the people on the edge of their seats.

"He can play on either wing and deliver crosses with either foot and he has a record of playing his part in successful promotion campaigns.

"We were aware that his contract was ending at Gillingham and so we remained patient and worked hard to get this deal done against some really strong competition and I am delighted we have done so.

"Mark is a quality addition to the squad and I believe he will be an asset to us."