SAINTS defender Derrick Abu has joined League Two Harrogate Town on loan until the end of the season.

The German-born, former England U17 international joins is set to be available for Saturday’s trip to Stockport County.

Abu, 20, signed for Saints after departing Chelsea in the summer and has made 11 appearances in Premier League 2. 

Speaking on the defender’s arrival, Harrogate boss Simon Weaver said: “We are delighted to get Derrick signed up on loan.

"He comes from Southampton and our recent record of players from there has been really good. He is an athletic full-back who can get up and down the pitch.

"He is an exciting player to watch, has great technical ability and speaking to him today we get the sense that he is ready to take this opportunity with both hands."

Born to Nigerian parents, Abu moved to England at the age of two, before he was scouted by Premier League giants Chelsea at age 11, signing a professional contract in February 2021.

A Saints statement added: "The club wishes Derrick well and will monitor his progress for the rest of the campaign."

Harrogate sit eighth in League Two are pushing to qualify for the playoffs, with MK Dons five points ahead in sixth.