Mansfield sign McDonnell on loan from Forest

McDonnell is a Northern Ireland under-21 international

Mansfield Town have signed midfielder Jamie McDonnell on a season-long loan from Nottingham Forest.

McDonnell, 21, who can also play at centre-back, is the third Forest youngster to join the Stags this summer following Joe Gardner and Kyle McAdam.

He spent last season on loan at Colchester United, making 32 appearances in League Two.

"There seems like a real family environment here with a strong bond amongst the players and staff. I feel like this is a club where I can really contribute and develop," McDonnell said.

He spoke to his City Ground team-mates prior to agreeing the move to Field Mill.

"I've previously spoken to Kyle and Joe and they've said nothing but great things about the club," he added.

The Stags start the new season with a trip to boss Nigel Clough's former club Burton Albion on 2 August.