Leeds United have terminated Paul Huntington's contract by mutual consent to allow the player to join Stockport County until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old's contract was due to expire in the summer, but the early departure will give him the opportunity to play regular football during the remainder of the season.

The former Newcastle defender joined Leeds in August 2007 and he made 32 appearances, scoring five goals.

Huntington was a regular under Dennis Wise and continued under Gary McAllister as United reached the League One Play-Off final in May 2008.

But after starting last term in the team, injuries frustrated the defender and his last league appearance for the club was against Bristol Rovers 17 months ago.

Hunty's only appearance this season came in the 1-0 Carling Cup first round win at Darlington, and the defender subsequently spent two months on loan at Stockport.