New Saints snap up Blackburn Rovers starlet on loan

As TNS look to defend their JD Cymru Premier title they have strengthened their midfield options by bringing in one of Rovers’ most exciting young prospects. 

The 20-year-old, who has been a regular in Blackburn’s youth teams during his career to date, can play across the centre of midfield and will be looking to excel as he makes the move to Park Hall. 

Harlock has racked up exceptional experience at the highest level of youth competition, featuring almost 100 times across the prestigious Premier League 2 and U18 Premier League competitions, as well as the FA Youth Cup.

During that time, the midfielder has scored 11 goals in all competitions and will hope to be a creative spark for Craig Harrison’s side. 

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This will be Harlock’s first taste of senior football away from Blackburn, having spent the majority of his youth career at Ewood Park. 

His debut could come as soon as Friday when the new JD Cymru Premier season gets underway with TNS facing rivals Connah’s Quay Nomads for the second time in a week, following the victory in the Nathaniel MG Cup last time out. 

Harlock said: “I am thrilled to get this deal done and make the move to a team that is deep rooted in success and has a good record of developing young players.

"The team is filled with quality, so I am looking forward to meeting the lads and hitting the ground running in the early part of the season.”

TNS coach Craig Harrison added: "We’re delighted to add someone of Jared’s quality to our squad and bolster our options ahead of the domestic season getting underway.

"He arrives with real pedigree and an excellent track record at youth level, so I’m sure he’ll bring plenty of quality to the options we already have in the midfield department.

"He’s a player who’s extremely hard-working and also has an eye for goal, so it’s great to have him with us for the season ahead."

TNS chairman Mike Harris said the signing underlined the club's ambitions.

He said: "This signing really highlights the trust that clubs have to send their finest young talent to TNS and it’s great to have someone of Jared’s talent joining the club.

"Our track record of developing players is second to none, so it’s great that we’ve been able to attract someone of Jared’s stature and quality to Park Hall for the new season.

"After a record breaking domestic season last year, we’re not prepared to rest on our laurels and we’re excited to begin our hunt for a 16th league title, as well as securing silverware in all available competitions."