SAINTS have announced that promising midfielder Joe O’Brien Whitmarsh will join Accrington Stanley on loan for the remainder of the season.

The 19 year old Irish talent, who signed with Saints in January 2024 from Cork City, has been a standout in the club’s under-21 squad.

O’Brien Whitmarsh made his senior debut for Cork City in March 2023, scoring four goals in 27 appearances during his debut season.

His impressive performances caught the attention of several English clubs, leading to his move to Saints, where he committed to a contract until 2027.

O'Brien Whitmarsh will now enjoy his first experience in men's football in England, with Accrington battling against relegation from League Two.

Joe O'Brien Whitmarsh has made one senior appearance for Saints, in the Carabao Cup (Image: Chris Moorhouse)

On the move, he said: "I just really wanted to get back into men’s football. I had a period back home in Ireland playing men's football.

“I played for Cork City, I spent five seasons there and one year in the first team. I played around 25-30 times so I am not niave to men’s football.

“I moved to Southampton just over 12 months ago and have been playing 21s football. I have had the odd time training with the first team.

"I also made my debut in the Carabao Cup. I feel I can offer something positive here and this was the perfect opportunity for me."

His new teammates sit 21st in the division and six points clear of the drop zone, having earned 29 points from their 27 fixtures this season.

Returning from Accrington side is centre-back Zach Awe, who had impressed on his first senior loan earlier this season.

He featured 27 times and attracted further interest from his performances but has suffered an in injury and has returned to Staplewood.

A Saints statement said: "The club would like to wish Joe well for the remainder of the season and looks forward to monitoring his progress, whilst wishing Zach all the best in his recovery."