Liverpool defender Lloyd Jones has extended his loan deal with Stanley until the end of the season.

The 19-year-old has played seven times in his initial month at the Store First Stadium, scoring in the Easter derby at Morecambe.

He’ll now be staying for the remainder of the campaign and could feature in tonight’s game at Hartlepool United.

“It’s gone really well,” said Jones. “It’s been seven good games and it’s been great to get as many games as I can under my belt. I feel a better player for the experience. That’s only going to help me. I’m just trying to take it in by stride but I do feel like a better player than when I arrived.

“I can’t wait to carry on playing for Accrington. If I can do well getting first team games then I know the manager at Liverpool will be watching as he takes an interest in the young kids coming through.

“I have to play well and secure my position here before I can think about any future loans or anything at Liverpool.

“I played at Hartlepool for Cheltenham (earlier this season) and it was a massive battle. It was probably the most physical game that I’ve played in. Hartlepool are fighting for their lives so they’ll be doing everything they can to win the game.”

Manager John Coleman has been pleased with the progress the England youth international has made in his time in Stanley red and is looking forward to continuing to work with him.

“He started off a little bit ropey at first but it was just a case of getting him to realise the way that we want to play and what’s expected of him,” he explained. “To be honest he’s been really keen to learn. He’s a good lad, he’s got a good character about him and I think he’ll turn into a really good footballer.

“We’d like to look at getting him again next season but obviously a lot of things can go on between now and then. He’s certainly on our radar.”