Altrincham have significantly strengthened at both ends of the pitch after turning defender Eddy Jones’ impressive loan spell into a permanent transfer and securing the services of Stockport County striker Connor Jennings for a further month.

Stoke City left-back Jones has reeled off 22 consecutive league and cup appearances since returning to Alty for a second loan at the start of September and has been a key figure in an unbeaten run that now stretches to eight games.

Capped twice for Wales under-21s, his consistent form prompted Phil Parkinson to enquire about signing him on a permanent basis, and after being given the green light by Stoke, the Alty boss said: “I’m delighted to get Eddy on board.

“We chased him all summer to bring him back to us, and once I knew we had a chance to sign him permanently, I didn’t hesitate to do everything I could to get it over the line. He will be a great acquisition for the club.”

Reflecting on his new status as a full-time Robin, 21-year old Jones said: “I’m buzzing to be at Altrincham permanently and excited for what is to come.

“Everything was a bit up in the air at Stoke in the summer, but I remembered how I really enjoyed my time with the gaffer here during my first loan spell last season and coming back proved a good decision because I’m delighted with how things have worked out.

“I’m really happy to have signed and hope we can go places together.

“I feel I have really improved as a player, and the brand of football the gaffer favours suits me and has been instrumental in the way my game has come on.

“We have played some superb stuff in a great unbeaten run, and long may that continue.”

Jennings has also contributed significantly to Alty’s recent outstanding form, after arriving at the beginning of November, and Parkinson can call on him for another month after he agreed to a loan extension.