Boss Phil Brown has landed a major coup in signing Preston midfielder Jack Baxter.

The 19-year-old has joined the Blues on loan until the end of the season and is available for tonight’s trip to Pontefract Collieries.

The highly-rated Baxter came through the youth system at Deepdale to earn a professional contract with North End.

He has since been tied up on a deal until June, 2022 with the Championship club after forcing his way into the first-team picture under Alex Neil.

“Jack is an excellent player, who’s got a bit of everything,” said a delighted Brown, who has been looking to strengthen his squad to enhance the Blues’ play-off prospects.

“He’s good on the ball, he competes well off it and when the opportunity arises, he’s got an eye for goal.

“Jack’s a great signing for us and I am very grateful to Preston for allowing us to have him.”

Teenage forward Mitch George has also extended his work experience loan spell from Burnley as the Blues look for a first win in four games to move within a point of fourth-placed Pontefract.