Hamilton boss John Rankin says new signing Dylan Stephenson will provide his side with the pace they have lacked up front this season.
The 20-year-old striker was officially unveiled at New Douglas Park this morning after putting pen to paper on a loan deal until the end of the season on Tuesday.
Stephenson has netted five goals in 18 appearances for the Newcastle Under-21 this season, as well as making his senior debut a 1-0 win over Atalanta in pre-season.
He links up with Magpies team-mate Lucas de Bolle, who is also on loan at Accies from Eddie Howe's side, and Rankin believes as well as being able to add goals to the squad, he will provide another attribute his team have been crying out for this season.
Rankin said: "We're delighted to get Dylan in. We chased him for a wee while. We'd seen lots of clips of him during the World Cup because he was playing for Newcastle's first team at that point.
"He can score goals but he'll certainly bring pace, that's for sure.
"He is quite athletic, sharp and quick. Playing through the middle we need that sort of pace.
"It is something we have lacked this season.
"His ability should really help us threaten defences but also give us our midfielders a bit more time on the ball."
He added: "Lucas has put in a good word for us. Newcastle have been up to see a few of our games recently with Lucas being back fit so that has really helped us get the deal over the line.
"Hopefully Dylan can come in now and make a good impact. His clearance has come through now so he goes straight into the squad for Saturday."
Rankin is on the verge of adding another forward to his ranks, with a deal believed to be close and potentially completed by tomorrow morning.
He added: "We're getting closer [to doing a deal].
"I know the player very well. He's very creative, a good attacking option.
"He's got that wee bit of confidence and a wee bit of arrogance on the pitch as well but at the same time I think he will bring a real creative threat for us in the final third, which is something we've lacked as well.
"He will definitely improve us and hopefully we can get that done soon."
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