Loan deal on the back-burner?

A deal to bring in a left sided player appears to be on the back-burner. After the departure of David Vaughan to Real Sociedad last month the club had indicated that they were actively seeking a replacement to fill the void that has been created by Vaughan`s departure to Spain.

The club have been linked with Derby winger Lee Holmes, but doubts over his fitness and a potential issue with wages had led them to consider other targets. Liverpool youngster Ray Putterill was on target in a behind closed doors against Crewe Reserves at the Merseyside giants Melwood training ground yesterday and it is believed that he is also being closely monitored by the management team.

Whilst a deal for one of these targets may eventually happen, it appears that the club have for now cooled their reputed interest. On the back of an encouraging performance by Eugen Bopp in the 2-0 win against Huddersfield last Saturday it appears they are going to persist with playing him out of position on the left hand side of midfield.

They are likely to give our own players every opportunity before delving in to the loan market. Bopp struggled to make an impact in the 2-0 reversal against Leyton Orient at the end of last month but Holland and Gradi have been pleased with the way that the Ukrainian has responded.

Meanwhile, Crewe are expected to make a decision very shortly on trialist Yannick Salem. The French striker featured in yesterday`s 2-1 defeat at Liverpool and a decision on his future is imminent. Crewe`s Under 18`s are in friendly action tonight at Crewe FC, kick off at the Cumberland Arena is 6.15pm.

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