Darlington have today completed the youth loan signing of 20 year old keeper James Talbot from Sunderland until his 21st birthday on 23rd April next year.

James, who was born in Dublin, has played twice for Sunderland Under 23 this season in the Checkatrade Trophy against Scunthorpe and Grimsby,  as well playing for them in the reserve Premier League.

He has also been capped by the Republic of Ireland at Under 16, under 17 and under 19 levels. He also played in the Northern League on loan at Sunderland RCA.

Darlington manager Tommy Wright said; “James is a very talented Irish international goalkeeper whom I came across recently whilst watching the Sunderland under 23s play Leicester City.

“He got his clean sheet on the night. I stood behind his goal in the second half and his communication and positioning were superb. He was very confident claiming his crosses and he distributed the ball very well.

“I am delighted that he is here and he will go straight into the squad for Saturday’s game.

“We again now have two quality goalkeepers whom I expect to really push each other for the shirt. A special mention must go to reserve keeper Matty Bancroft who over the last few weeks has filled the number two role and looks a real prospect for the future.

“On behalf of Darlington FC, I would like to thank Chris Coleman, Robbie Stockdale and Kevin Ball in particular for sanctioning this loan. Also an even bigger thank you to my board of directors for providing the funds to make it happen.”

James is not the first keeper that Quakers have taken on loan from Sunderland. In the 2011-12 season, Jordan Pickford came on loan for three months, and later went on to play in the Premier League for Sunderland and Everton and is now in the England squad.