Stafford Rangers Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of promising young defender Luke Banks from Derby County on an initial one-month loan deal.

The 20-year-old centre-back arrives at Marston Road having progressed through the academy ranks at Derby County, where he has been part of the club’s setup since the age of nine.

Having spent more than a decade developing within the Rams’ academy system, Banks has worked his way through the youth ranks and is currently part of Derby County’s Under-21 squad.

The move to Stafford Rangers presents an opportunity for the young defender to gain valuable experience in senior football as he joins Graham Deakin’s squad.

Head Scout George Stephens said:

“We are delighted to welcome Banksy to the football club. The unfortunate news regarding Mitch’s injury means we are a little light in terms of defensive numbers, so it was important we brought a body in.

Luke ticks a number of boxes for us and comes with fantastic pedigree and references. He has been a real leader in his time coming through the academy system at Derby, and this is a great chance for him to accelerate the next stages of his development in a really good first-team environment.

We have a strong relationship with Derby, and I would like to personally thank Paul Whitworth for his support in getting Luke into the building.

We look forward to welcoming Luke to the football club, and what an occasion to do that this Sunday vs Grimsby!”

Banks will be looking to make a positive impression during his initial month with the Boro, adding another option to the club’s defensive ranks as Rangers continue their campaign.

Everyone at Stafford Rangers would like to welcome Luke to Marston Road and wish him every success during his time with the club.