NEWCASTLE midfielder Isaac Hayden has joined Portsmouth on loan until the end of the season.

Hayden has never featured in Eddie Howe's plans, wasn't in the Premier League squad this season and hasn't been training with the first team.

He still has 18 months to run on his contract at St James' Park, but will spend the rest of the season at Fratton Park.

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“Isaac is a central midfielder who has a wealth of experience in the Premier League and Championship," said Portsmouth boss John Mousinho.

“He’s extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet and is also very strong defensively, possessing a lot of the attributes we were looking for.

“But he’s also a leader both on and off the pitch, so we’re delighted to be able to add him to the squad for the rest of the season."

Hayden has previously spent time on loan at Norwich City, Standard Liege and QPR.