AFC Rushden & Diamonds have announced Fabio Lopes has joined on loan from Oxford United.

The 18-year-old's paperwork is expected to be completed in time for him to be available this weekend.

Rushden are sixth in the Premier Central division of the BetVictor Southern League.

Diamonds boss Andy Peaks told their club website: “Fabio is a really exciting player and I am delighted he is joining us.

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"We showed last season how well we can work with professional clubs – these young talented players can come in and improve our squad, and we can assist in developing them as players by exposing them to men’s football.”

Lopes has made six first team appearances for United, four of which have this season.

He is the latest player to be sent out on loan to gain experience, with midfielder Jack Stevens joining Thame United last weekend.

The likes of Nico Jones, Fabio Sole and Leon Chambers-Parillon are expected to follow shortly.