Micah Hamilton has joined League One side Stockport County on loan for the rest of the season, having struggled to make an impact at Middlesbrough so far.

The 21-year-old joined Boro from Manchester City in the summer. Having played for Pep Guardiola's side on occasion and even scored on his Champions League debut, the capture was considered a bit of a coup for Boro. However, as Michael Carrick stressed the need for patience with him, Hamilton struggled to earn much game-time in the first half of the season.

As such, Boro have allowed the young forward to join Stockport. He ironically replaces Louie Barry in their squad - the Aston Villa forward who was recalled earlier this month amid links to numerous Championship clubs, including Boro. Though they had watched the young forward, they were never believed to be seriously considering a move this month.

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Hamilton has moved though, and offering insight into Boro's thinking with the deal, County boss Dave Challinor said: “Micah is a player with huge potential and quality, as seen from the glimpses in Manchester City’s first team. His move to Middlesbrough hasn’t quite turned out as everyone would have hoped, but they have belief in what he can achieve there.

"Both he and they feel that a move and a platform at our level can catapult him closer to that. He’s an exciting forward player that can give us real quality at the top end of the pitch and we’re really looking forward to seeing and working with him.”

Director of football, Simon Wilson added: “Micah is a player who was in demand this summer from a number of Championship clubs and it was no surprise to see Middlesbrough, who sign particularly well, invest in him. He has tasted top-end Championship football and arrives to us hungry for playing time so he can impact and help the team.

“As a local lad he knows all about our club and has shown a will to come to us, in spite of a lot of competition. Our supporters can expect an attack-minded player with power, pace and creativity. These players always thrive in positive environments and I am sure we can collectively create this and see the best of Micah during his time here.”