Millwall prospect turns short Chesterfield trial into a season-long loan move

The teenage prospect has signed in on a one-season loan deal after impressing in a short trial over the last week.

The club liked what they saw in Friday’s friendly in Dublin against Bohemians and have been in discussions with Millwall in the last few days.

That has resulted in Lamptey coming on board for a crack at League Two next season when he will compete for a place in central midfield.

Lamptey turns 20 next month. He’s on a long-term contract at Millwall and needs to get out to hone his game in first team football.

His only taste so far has been as a sub in an FA Cup tie at Burnley.

"It feels good to be here,” he said. “I've spoken to the gaffer and the coaches. I even spoke to the owners. It was a really good conversation and it made me feel part of the club.”

Lamptey missed out on a scholarship when he was with Watford in his younger years.

He re-grouped and went on to show his worth with Millwall’s U21s, doing well enough to be handed a long-term contract last year.

He promised: "You're going to see lots of tackles from me, that's for sure. I'm composed on the ball but you're going to see aggression. Every time I go out on the pitch, I'm going to give my all."

Rafiq is the younger brother of QPR player Tariq Lamptey, who he regularly taps up for help and information.

Chesterfield manager Danny Webb said the loan deal was beneficial for both the player and the club.

“Rafiq is going to get a fantastic amount of experience this season. We're getting someone who is hungry to play and have a successful season,” he said.

Lamptey is the Spireites’ second loan signing, joining Leyton Orient forward Josh Koroma at the SMH for the 26/27 season.

The other eight arrivals are all permanents, made up of Junior Eccleston, Alfie Pond, Jack Simpson, George McEachran, Ruel Sitiriou, Remeau Hutton, Danny Anisjko and Fraser Bryden, who joined this week from Crusaders in Ireland.