Workaholic striker who was a loan hit at County heading for Scottish Premiership

FORMER Newport County AFC loan star Seb Palmer-Houlden will make the step up to the Scottish Premiership in the coming season.

The Bristol City striker has joined Dundee on a season-long loan, with the Championship club having a January recall option.

The 20-year-old had an impressive first real taste of men’s football with the Exiles, making 42 appearances, showing a huge appetite for work and scoring nine goals, including memorable winners against Doncaster, Wrexham and Swindon.

Palmer-Houlden was rewarded with a fresh contract in Bristol and will now continue to learn north of the border with Dundee, who finished sixth last season.

City technical director Brian Tinnion said: “This is a great opportunity for Seb to continue his football development.

“He had a really good season in League Two and the Scottish Premiership provides the perfect next step in his progression.”

PROMISING: Seb Palmer-Houlden caught the eye at County (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

Palmer-Houlden was a huge hit in Newport and now wants to repeat the trick at Dens Park.

“I just can’t wait to get started and hit the ground running,” he said. “It’s a great move for me, the Scottish Premiership is a great league and when I heard that Dundee were interested I jumped at the opportunity.

“I developed a lot as a player last season at Newport County and I want to continue that this season at Dundee.

“I’m a high intensity runner, I like to get in behind the defence and score goals and I hope that I will be able to play my part this season for the team. I just really can’t wait to get started and get out on the pitch.”

Another of last season's loanees has been linked with a move up a level.

Southampton full-back Lewis Payne is said to be on the radar of League One clubs Exeter, Bristol Rovers and Lincoln.

Of the other loanees from 2023/24, Adam Lewis and Matty Bondswell have left Liverpool and Newcastle while Matt Baker has been offered a new Stoke contract.