Manchester City youngster Joe Hodge has signed a six month loan deal with Derry City.

The 18-year-old was attracting interest from a lot of clubs during the January transfer window.

He received his first professional contract with City in August.

"I'm absolutely delighted to be bringing Joe to Derry City," Derry manager Declan Devine stated to the club website.

"It's a high profile loan signing for us given that Man City are one of the biggest clubs in the world and Joe is one of their top young talents and current 'Scholar of the Year'."

"Of course Joe is just 18 years old and this will be his first venture into senior football. "