CHERRIES midfielder Joe Rothwell has been lent to Championship neighbours Southampton on loan for the rest of the campaign.

The former Blackburn Rovers man completed a medical in Hampshire on Sunday, with Cherries confirming the temporary switch on Monday evening.

Rothwell arrives at St Mary’s with Saints chasing a return to the top-flight at the first attempt, following their relegation from the Premier League last term.

Unbeaten in their 20 league matches, Southampton are currently third in the second tier.

Since joining on a free transfer from Blackburn in the summer of 2022, Rothwell has made 35 appearances for Cherries.

All though a frequent starter at the start of the campaign, Rothwell has dropped down the pecking order with fellow midfielders returning from injury.

This term he has made 13 appearances in all competitions under Andoni Iraola, his last start coming in the victory over Stoke City in the League Cup.

His last appearance came off the bench during Cherries’ 3-2 victory away at Nottingham Forest in December, his 11 Premier League match of the season.

Speaking about Rothwell's arrival, Southampton's director of football Jason Wilcox said: “Joe is a quality addition who gives us further strength and depth in the squad, which will be particularly important as the season goes on.

“We’re very pleased to be able to bring in a player of his experience and ability.”

Rothwell added: “I’m thankful to Southampton for allowing me to come here. Hopefully, I can come in and show my experience of this league and help them get over the line.

“I can't wait to finally get going and put my boots on, and hopefully we can get the club back to where it belongs.”

In total Rothwell has played 152 times in England’s second tier, scoring 10 goals.

The 29-year-old signed a four-year contract when he joined Cherries last summer. 

With no option or obligation in the loan deal, Rothwell will return to Vitality Stadium at the end of the campaign.