Northampton Town sign Coventry City defender to replace injured Langmead

The 6ft 2ins defender, 21, is well known to boss Aidy Boothroyd, who gave the player his league debut, and will bolster the squad in light of an injury to captain Kelvin Langmead.

The skipper, who has started every game this season, will undergo surgery on a knee problem sustained in the win over Oxford United but should return before the end of the campaign.

“I gave Nathan his debut in the Championship,” said Boothroyd. “He was one of the stand out players of my time at Coventry.

“He is an England under 19 international and he has all the attributes required to be a top class defender.

“Sometimes young players lose their way a little and a change of scene can do them the world of good and I have a lot of faith in Nathan’s ability.

“For someone of 21 he has a fair bit of experience under his belt.

“He has had some ups and downs in his career already but I am sure we can help get the best out of him.

“I know all about him, he is powerful, good in the air and quick and I am delighted he is here.”

Langmead, who was one of Aidy Boothroyd’s first permanent signings as Cobblers boss when he converted a loan spell into a permanent move in January 2012, has been a crucial player this season, contributing eight goals and playing every minute of every game until the weekend.

“In a way we are relieved because thankfully the injury is not as bad as we feared it could be,” said Boothroyd.

“The surgeons say Kelvin will be back before the end of the season and knowing Kelvin he will be back even quicker than they expect.

“Kelvin has played a huge part in turning this club around and he will continue to do so as we carry on taking this club forward.”