Newcastle United defender Kell Watts is third Mansfield Town January transfer arrival

The Watts signing followed Saturday's arrival of former Plymouth defender Joe Riley, but Watts is unlikely to be involved at Oldham Athletic tonight.

The 20-year-old has already had an excellent spell at League Two rivals Stevenage this season and Coughlan said of the former England U19 international: “He is a player that first came on our radar when he was playing with the U23s at Newcastle - and I've liked what I have seen.

“He then went out on loan at Stevenage where he really excelled in numerous positions for them.

“He has since gone back to Newcastle and we felt it was too good an opportunity to miss.”

Versatile loanee Conor Shaughnessy was recently recalled by Leeds United and Coughlan said: “Having lost young Shaughnessy as well, that left a bit of a void.

“But Kelland is a player who can play numerous positions. He can play centre half in a two or three, he can sit in front, or he can play left back.

“He is technically very good. He is big, strong, solid and mobile and suits the division. He covers 10-11k a game, he is tidy on the ball and he's fresh.

“He has a hunger, a desire, a work rate and an attitude - exactly what we're looking to build here.

“I would prefer to play him as a centre half, but if he needs to, he is comfortable to 'polyfill'. He has a hunger, a desire, a work rate and an attitude exactly what we're looking to build here.

“He should fit into the changing room really well. Let's see if we can bring his game on to another level. We are delighted to have him on board.

“Having him should bring another 5-10 per cent from our current defenders as he will add a bit of competition. His flexibility will help too.”

Kelland is January signing number three and Coughlan said: “If we can get another player in then great. If we don't I won't lose any sleep.

“We are actively looking, but it always has to be the right player for us who fits into our ethos.

“Last Friday I would have said we needed 11, but I woke up on Sunday morning and I was saying none, such is the rollercoaster of emotions in football.

“I have said since I came in I am more than happy to work with the group of players I have in here.

“The owners have been excellent and supportive. If I felt I needed another one I am sure they would back us.

“But the group we have here have bought into what we want. They are working hard and they are improving all the time in fitness levels and performances.”