GRAHAM WESTLEY has spoken of his delight after bringing in 22-year-old Histon goalkeeper Joe Welch on loan until the end of the season.

Boro swooped to bring in the former Southend youth product yesterday (Thursday) with a view to signing him on a permanent basis in the summer.

The 6ft 3in stopper, who has made 38 appearances for The Stutes this season, trained with his new teammates for the first time today (Friday) ahead of their trip to Macclesfield and Westley is already pleased with what he’s seen.

“He caught my eye earlier on in the season where he put in a good display and I’ve had him watched a few times since and I’m delighted we’ve been able to bring him in,” Westley told The Comet.

“With Bayso (Ashley Bayes) suffering a knock he provides good back up for Daisy (Chris Day).”

Westley doesn’t see any reason why Welch can’t go on to become a future number one at the Lamex Stadium in years to come as he continues to put faith in younger, unproven talent after bringing in striker Byron Harrison in January.

“When you see bright young talent you want to keep it when looking to the long term, he added.

“We’ve shown with the likes of Byron Harrison that we’re not frightened to throw young players in and what they’ve done in the past has nothing to do with what they’re capable of in the future.

“It’s good to have players with raw talent, and with the managerial capabilities and coaching we’ve got he’s certainly a very good prospect for the future.”

Westley also says he’s been impressed with Welch’s willingness to learn, and suggests he wouldn’t have taken him on board otherwise.

“If a player hasn’t got a learning attitude then there’s no point in working with them.”