TEENAGE striker Tyler Smith has joined Barrow AFC on a six-month loan deal.

The Sheffield United youngster goes straight into Ian Evatt's squad for the season-opener against Havant and Waterlooville tomorrow.

He is the second signing of the week for the Bluebirds, following a non-contract deal for goalkeeper Jim Pollard.

Smith was given a two-year professional contract at Bramall Lane in 2017, and has been a regular in both their under-18s and under-23s sides in recent seasons.

The Sheffield-born forward scored 18 goals in 2016/17, and featured in the Blades' opening pre-season fixture last month, scoring in a 5-1 victory over Stocksbridge Park Steels.

Barrow are still looking to complete the paperwork on another loan signing, but Evatt is no longer too concerned about adding a further central defender, with Brian Wilson back fit after a calf issue.

“At the moment, I think we're okay,” the manager said of the defensive situation. “Brian Wilson is fully-fit now and raring to go. Josh Granite is doing well, we've got Matty Elsdon and other players who can play there.

“Because Brian has healed quicker than we thought, I don't think it's an urgent issue.”