Steven Hewitt: Burnley midfielder signs short-term deal at Chester

Steven Hewitt has had loan spells at Southport and Alfreton

Chester have signed midfielder Steven Hewitt on a deal until the end of the season, following his release by Championship side Burnley.

The 22-year-old only made two league appearances for the Clarets in four years at Turf Moor.

"We had Steven in just before Christmas for a week and were very impressed with him," said Chester manager Steve Burr.

But the National League side have lost out in an attempt to renew the loan of another Burnley player, Alex Whitmore.

Whitmore signed in November on the same day as Port Vale youngster Ryan Lloyd, who has agreed to stop for a further month.

Meanwhile, Chester, 14th in the table, nine points clear of safety, have also allowed Kane Richards to join National League North side Gainsborough Trinity on a one-month loan.

Richards, who started his career on Derby County's books, joined City from Northern Premier League side Ilkeston a year ago.