Friday 20 March 2015 08:38, UK
Assistant boss Alan Knill admits Northampton jumped at the chance of signing Diego De Girolamo on loan from Sheffield United.
The Blades recalled the 19-year-old, recently linked with a move to Juventus, from his temporary stay at Sky Bet League Two strugglers York in order to send him to Sixfields for the rest of the season. With top-scorer Marc Richards out injured, the Cobblers - four points off the play-offs - had no hesitation in bolstering their striking options with the Italy Under-20 international. Knill told Northampton's official YouTube channel: "We felt we needed something else. He plays a number of positions and fits into the way the team has been playing since Christmas. "Myself and Chris (Wilder) knew a lot about him from Sheffield United and he has done really well at York. When he became available for us and the opportunity was there, we jumped at it. "He is a really talented lad, got great technical ability and, most importantly, can score a goal." De Girolamo, whose contract with the Blades expires in the summer, scored four goals in 12 appearances with the Minstermen, meaning he is familiar with League Two football. Knill added: "He knows what to expect every week and when he first got the loan move to York, it was a great signing for York. "He proved that for them. We think he is going to fit in really well here." De Girolamo said: "I've been on loan at York and had a really good time there, but I've spoke to the gaffer here and know the way Northampton play football and that attracted me. "I'm really hoping I can express myself here. I want the ball a lot and join in with the team and I've seen the pitch and it is looking great. I'm looking forward to playing on it."
