Crewe Alex have taken Liverpool player Corey Whelan on loan until January.

The 20-year-old, who spent time at Yeovil last time, penned a deal until January just minutes before the transfer deadline.

A versatile defender who is equally comfortable playing at right-back or centre-half, he will add depth to a reaguard which was also bolstered by Preston loan man Kevin O'Connor on Wednesday.

Whelan, who skippers the Reds under 23s, He missed the noon registration cut-off to be involved in the Cheshire derby against Macclesfield Town tomorrow (Saturday, 3pm).

But he is in contention for selection for Tuesday's Checkatrade Trophy trip to Tranmere Rovers.

Whelan tweeted: "Delighted to have signed on loan for Crewe Alex. Looking forward to my new challenge at a top club!"

A Crewe Alex spokesman said: "Corey started out life in the Crewe Alex academy before being signed by the Reds in 2007 aged nine.

"He is also a regular internationally for the Republic of Ireland U21s.

"He played 11 games for Yeovil in the second half of 2017-18, scoring once in a 3-2 Checkatrade Trophy victory over Fleetwood Town.

"Everyone at Crewe Alexandra would like to welcome Corey back to the club after 11 years away."