Luke Woolfenden is joining Swindon Town on a season-long loan deal.

The defender has impressed during his outings in the Ipswich Town first team but Paul Hurst believes his development is best served with a loan deal to the League Two Robins.

Hurst revealed this week that a number of clubs had been in contact regarding Woolfenden, who has returned quicker than expected from a knee injury suffered in the draw with Blackburn Rovers on the opening day.

“I have to say, I think credit to the medical staff and also credit to the player himself, he made a speedier recovery than we first thought or feared,” Hurst said.

“He’s one that we’ve had a quite a bit of interest in on the loan front but as we stand, I’m sure you’d all agree, it would be foolish to allow someone like that out if we haven’t got another defender in the building with us.

“But I think it was pleasing to see him out there, especially when we thought it might have been another three weeks or so.

“He’s a young lad, hopefully he he doesn’t get injured anyway, but if he does he’s shown that he’s quite a quick healer.”

Woolfenden said: “I’m excited because it’s a big club which shouldn’t be in League Two. I spoke to Ben Chorley and he gave me assurances about the club, the size of it, so I just can’t wait to get started.

“When Phil Brown first rang me I said: I know who he is, he’s worked in the Premier League so that was a huge draw for me.

“I was comfortable at that level, in the National League, so I think I’m more than ready to make the step up to League Two.”

Robins manager Phil revealed he spoke to Mick McCarthy prior to making a move for Woolfenden, who will be reunited with his former Bromley team-mate Ben Chorley: “I’ve been chasing him for six weeks now. He was recommended to me by Mick McCarthy. He said in a heartbeat that we should take the lad, Luke. That’s a great recommendation.

“As well as that, Ben Chorley played alongside him last season at Bromley and swears by his character. He can play centre half and other positions which is exactly what we’ve wanted.

“I’m absolutely delighted to get hold of a top player but it shows just what a crazy transfer window this has been that I’ve been chasing him for six weeks and only got him five minutes before the deadline.”