Blues boss Steve Burr has boosted his squad for tonight's game at Macclesfield Town (7.45pm) with two loan signings.

Rhys Oates arrives from League One club and FA Cup second round opponents Barnsley while Josh O'Keefe has been loaned from Kidderminster Harriers.

Burr told The Chronicle the deals had been completed in time for the pair to be included in the squad to face Macc.

He said: "I've been on the phone to Calvin (Hughes, football secretary) and it's all completed and they are ready to be involved tonight.

"I'm delighted that we've been able to strengthen the squad."

Oates, 19, will be with club until December 20 and the tall forward had a similar spell at Grimsby Town in September.

He scored on his debut for Mariners against Kidderminster and started in the Blues 3-0 defeat at Blundell Park.

Oates had loan spells with Conference North clubs Gainsborough Trinity and Stockport County last season.

Tall midfielder O'Keefe started his career with Blackburn Rovers but the 25-year-old switched to Walsall and then Lincoln City, where he scored five times in 47 games.

Josh O'Keefe, seen here playing for Walsall, puts a tackle in on James Dunne
Josh O'Keefe, seen here playing for Walsall, puts a tackle in on James Dunne

O'Keefe moved to Southport and then Hereford United, where he played alongside Kingsley James, before linking up with Kidderminster in January.

He made five appearances on loan at AFC Telofrd United in September and will remain with the Blues until New Year's Day.

Burr said: "I tried to get Rhys before he went to Grimsby and I watched him again when they played Kiddy on a Friday night.

"We haven't really got anybody to push Hobby (Craig Hobson) and he's a similar type of player and I'm pleased to have him.

"I'm pleased to bring Josh in too. He's a very, very fit lad and it hasn't really worked out for him at Kidderminster but he's another good addition."