STEVENAGE boss Gary Smith today confirmed the capture of Southampton youngster Sam Hoskins on a loan deal until the end of the season.

The 19-year-old could be in contention for Boro’s League 1 clash away at Crewe Alexandra on Saturday.

Speaking to The Comet about his capture from the Premier League club, Smith said: “Sam Hoskins has signed for us, he will be here till the end of the season, so that’s a positive move for the group.

“Sam is a forward and a creative type player, but more importantly he adds a bit more athleticism and pace to a front line or attacking group, so that’s something I have been looking at.

“There is absolutely nothing wrong with the vast majority of players that we have got here, and in no way, shape or form am I looking to shake things up, but certainly I think for them to see one or two new faces so that they feel there is that little bit more to lean on, and that pace and athleticism up front, is something that we need.

“Anybody of that ilk is somebody of interest.”

Hoskins is yet to make a league appearance for The Saints, but has featured in the League and FA Cup as a substitute.

He was loaned out to League 2 outfit Rotherham United last season, netting twice in eight games.

Hoskins has been in fine form in the Barclays U21 Premier League this season for The Saints, scoring nine goals in 12 games to lead the goalscoring charts.