Ipswich Town and Southend United youngsters sign for King's Lynn Town in the National League

King's Lynn Town have this afternoon bolstered their threadbare squad with the signings of two young defenders.

Arriving at The Walks on temporary deals until the end of the campaign are Ipswich Town defender Elkan Baggott, 18, and Southend United defender Rob Howard, 21.

Indonesia Under-19 international Baggott captured the attention Premier League outfits Leeds United and West Ham United before signing his first professional contract with the club at the end of January.

The left-sided defender, who made his senior debut earlier this season against Gillingham in the Papa John’s Trophy, has been one of the key players in Town Under-18s' run in the FA Youth Cup.

Baggott has been tipped for a big future at Portman Road and has recently been called into Indonesia's Under 19s for the first time.

Howard, meanwhile, recently returned to his roots after completing a two-year scholarship with Essex rivals Colchester United.

The right-back, who can also appear in a holding midfield position, came through the Blues' Academy until joining Arsenal at the age of 14.

After two seasons with the Gunners the 19-year-old headed to north Essex but, despite featuring in a side that reached the Fifth Round of The FA Youth Cup with the U’s in 2017/18, he was allowed to leave the club, joining Blues on trial during the second half of that campaign.

Howard spent three years with Blues during his initial period with the club, and he inked a one-year deal in the summer to link up with the U23s, having remained in contact with Academy Manager Ricky Duncan.

The Billericay-based youngster has also spent some time on loan at National League South side Dartford.

Both Baggott and Howard could make their King's Lynn debuts at Altrincham tomorrow night.