18-year old striker Lucas Akins has today joined Northwich Victoria on an initial month's loan.

Northwich, managed by Dino Maamria, are currently bottom of the Blue Square Premier with only three points from 19 games so far this season.

Town manager Andy Ritchie stated at the beginning of the season that he would aim to get some of the first year professionals out on loan if the move was right for them and Akins is the first player to do so, with today being loan deadline day for English clubs.

"I'm sure the move will be a good one for Lucas," Ritchie explained to htafc.com. "It's initially only for a month to see how he settles in, but he's really fired up about the move and it means that he'll be playing at a good level.

"I've talked about getting some of the lads who have graduated from our Academy out of their comfort zone and this will be a good move for him. Sometimes it's hard to send players out on loan who have not featured regularly in first-team football, but Dino approached us about him and I'm delighted."

Akins signed his first professional deal for Town in the summer and has made a total of six substitute appearances for the Club. htafc.com will keep Town fans up-to-date on how he gets on for The Vics, starting with this weekend's game against Rushden - if Lucas is involved!

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