HEREFORD FC have announced their fifth signing in one day ahead of Saturday's FA Cup against Gosport Borough.

Manager Josh Gowling has already announced four new signings today (Friday), including former Hereford United player James McQuilkin.

Now he's made a fifth as Luke Haines arrives on loan from League One club Swindon Town.

The 19-year-old midfielder told the official Hereford website: "I met with the boys and the gaffer on Monday, they’re a good group of lads and I’m really looking forward to getting going.

"I think we can achieve something this season, with the players we’ve got, some of the lads have played at a higher level.

He added: “The gaffer has been talking to me through the whole of lockdown about coming here, I was meant to come a few weeks back, but Swindon picked up a few injuries so I had to hold fire for a while, but I’m here now.

“I can’t wait to get out there, it’s about 6 months without a competitive game because of coronavirus, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

Manager Josh Gowling said: “I’ve been chasing Luke for a long time.

“I tried to get him here when I took over last season, but he ended up going on loan to Chippenham. I’ve been trying to get him in for the last 7 months or so, and talks continued in pre-season with Swindon, but then they picked up a couple of injuries and understandably, they wanted to keep hold of him.

“I’ve been trying to get him over the line for a while now, so I’m really pleased that it’s happened. I’d like to thank Swindon for their help as well.

He added: “He’s comfortable on the ball, he’s the type of player you wouldn’t like to play against, perhaps a little bit nasty, but that’s what we need, he’ll add some bite in midfield.

“I’m really pleased to finally manage to get the deal done.”