Graham Potter says the “great progress” of younger players has helped allow him let Jurgen Locadia go out on loan.

The Dutch striker has signed for Hoffenheim for the rest of the season.

Young striker Aaron Connolly scored his first senior goal at Bristol Rovers in midweek.

Steven Alzate also impressed in the 2-1 win at Bristol Rovers.

Potter said: “We’re in a good position for Jurgen to make this move, on the back of the great progress some of the younger players have made over the summer, and in particular Aaron Connolly and Steven Alzate.

“Those two have been excellent throughout pre-season, not looked out of place with the first-team squad and showed on Tuesday night that they are capable of producing for us at first-team level.

“Equally as a club we feel it’s important for us to ensure we are providing those younger players with a visible pathway that includes playing opportunities with the first team.”

Florin Andone misses the next two games through suspension due to his red card against Southampton.