DEAN KEATES has completed his first signing since returning as Wrexham manager with right-back James Horsfield joining on loan from Scunthorpe United.

Keates said he was looking to strengthen his squad after Tuesday's 1-0 defeat against Chesterfield saw Wrexham drop back into the National League relegation zone and Horsfield has arrived on an initial one-month loan deal.

The 24-year-old came through Manchester City's youth system and had loan spells at Doncaster Rovers and NAC Breda before signing permanently for the Dutch top flight side in 2017.

Also at home playing in midfield, Horsfield moved to Scunthorpe on a free transfer in July 2018, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal.

Horsfield made 15 appearances for the Iron last term before having a loan spell at Scottish Premier League outfit Dundee, where he played 11 games.

However, Horsfield hasn't featured for League Two side Scunthorpe this season and has made the temporary switch to Wrexham who have applied for international clearance and hope to have him available for Saturday’s FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie at Chesterfield.

Keates said: “James will be a good addition to the squad and he will certainly add competition for places in two areas.

"He can play at full-back or in the centre of midfield, so he’ll give me options going forward.

“I’m looking forward to working with James as we look to freshen things up a little bit and get the team moving up the league table.”