Scunthorpe United have signed Nottingham Forest right-back Jordan Gabriel on loan until the end of the season, the League Two side have announced.

Gabriel joined Forest from League One side Southend United back in 2016, and has been a consistent feature at youth level for his parent club in recent years.

The 21-year-old also made his senior debut for the Championship outfit earlier this year, coming on as a late substitute in his side's 5-0 defeat at Arsenal in the third round of the Carabao Cup, while also being named in the matchday squad for their FA Cup third round loss at Chelsea at the start of this year.

Speaking to Scunthorpe's official website following confirmation of his move, Gabriel said: “It’s a great opportunity and I’m absolutely buzzing to be here. It will be a great experience and the lads have welcomed me with open arms. The gaffer, staff and everyone has been really good."

Discussing his aims for the remainder of the season at Glanford Park, the defender continued: “I just want to be out playing football and doing the thing I love. I can’t wait to play. I can’t wait to see the fans and get stuck in."

Scunthorpe are currently 14th in the League Two standings, 13 points adrift of the play-off places and ten clear of the relegation zone, and are next in action on Saturday afternoon, when they host promotion-chasing Crewe Alexandra, a game in which Gabriel could make his debut.

The Verdict

This looks as though it could be a decent move for all parties.

For Gabriel himself, this should give him the opportunity to enjoy a regular spell in first-team football for the first time in his career, something which ought to aid his development as a player.

Scunthorpe meanwhile, are getting a player who looks to have plenty of potential, which should help them end the season on a high, even though a play-off push and relegation both currently look unlikely to happen.

Forest too should be pleased with this deal, given the opportunity it gives one of their young players the change to improve his game in a risk-free environment from the perspective of Sabri Lamouchi's promotion hopefuls.