Wigan Athletic defender Jack Sanders has joined non-league side Southport FC on a loan deal for the remainder of the season. 

Southport confirmed the news on their official website, and they'll be hoping that the youngster can make an instant impact with their side.

Sanders moved to Wigan in the summer of 2019 after catching the eye with a number of impressive performances for non-league Leek Town.

But he's yet to feature for the first-team in his time with the club, and the Championship side will be keen to see him further his development in senior football away from the DW Stadium this term.

Paul Cook's side are currently struggling to stay afloat in the second-tier and find themselves occupying one of the spots in the relegation zone with 14 league games remaining of their season.

Sanders was highly unlikely to be able to force his way into Cook's plans for the senior side though, and he'll be keen to play his part in their late push for the play-off positions in the Vanarama National League North.

Southport are next in action this weekend when they take on Spennymoor Town, although it remains to be seen as to whether Sadler will be involved, given that his move is subject to FA approval.

Can you score full marks on this Wigan Athletic quiz? 

The Verdict: 

This seems as though it's the best move for both parties.

Sanders is yet to make a senior appearance for Wigan Athletic, and he's likely to be considerably far down the pecking order in Paul Cook's plans.

A loan move is certainly the best option for him this season, as it'll give Sanders the chance to prove himself in senior football, before potentially making the step up to the Wigan first team in next year's campaign.

He could be a player that Paul Cook calls upon if the Latics are playing their football in League One next season, with relegation looking a possibility this term.