Simpson quick to act for loan deal

Thursday 1st January 2009, 12:03PM GMT.

Boss Paul Simpson today added to his Shrewsbury Town squad on day one of the new transfer window by signing West Bromwich Albion teenager Joss Labadie.

The 19-year-old midfielder has joined on an initial 28-day emergency loan and goes straight into the squad for Saturday’s League Two trip to Bradford City.

Labadie’s arrival was confirmed less than 12 hours after the window opened, with clubs now allowed to make signings up-to-and-including Monday, February 2.

The Essex-born youngster will be re-united with Baggies team-mate Luke Daniels, the talented goalkeeper having already extended his own loan spell for another month, with a view to staying to the end of the season.

“Joss adds a different option to the centre of our midfield,” said Simpson.

“He’s a player who is highly-regarded at Albion and will strengthen our options.

“He will come in and train with the players ahead of the trip to Bradford and will then go into the squad.”

Goalkeeper Scott Bevan’s move to Blue Square Premier side Torquay was also officially completed today as the Shrewsbury manager begins a busy month of wheeling and dealing.