Mccann helps former team-mate Duff with loan deal for Sheaf
YOUNG Hull City midfielder Max Sheaf has joined Cheltenham Town on an initial six-month loan deal.
The 19-year-old will go into the Robins’ squad for their first League Two match of the season against Leyton Orient on Saturday.
He becomes Michael Duff ’s sixth new recruit of the summer and takes the number of players signed on to 20, but three are definitely out for the opener at Brisbane Road.
Strikers Reuben Reid and George Lloyd (both knee) and left wing-back Chris Hussey (thigh) will not be available.
“He is a good young player who popped up on our radar two weeks ago,” Duff said.
“He will bring energy, is a good character and wants to learn. We’ve had him watched and he comes recommended by Grant Mccann, who I know well.”
Sheaf made one Championship appearance for Hull last term, going on as a substitute in the 1-1 final day draw with Bristol City.
Gravesend-born Sheaf, who has also appeared briefly in the EFL Cup and FA Cup for Hull, joined them as a 16-yearold after being released by Arsenal.
“I think it’s the next step in my career. I am thankful for the opportunity,” Sheaf said.
“I know it’s not going to be me just walking into the team. I’ve got to work hard for it and I’m full prepared for that.
“It’s definitely a great experience for me and as long as I take my chance it could be massive.”
Sheaf’s older brother Ben, still on the books of the Gunners, has joined League One Doncaster Rovers on a season-long loan.
Max, who is under contract at Hull until 2021, suffered a fractured skull during an exhibition match against the Sportpesa All-stars at the KCOM Stadium in February 2017.
Hull are managed by former Cheltenham midfielder Mccann, a former team mate of Duff’s for both Cheltenham and Northern Ireland.
Mccann was appointed in June after guiding Doncaster to the play-offs in 2018/19.
» Pre-season minutes and expected squad numbers for Cheltenham’s 20 signed players:
» 1. Scott Flinders: 275
» 2. Sean Long: 358
» 3. Chris Hussey: 0
» 4. Ben Tozer: 365
» 5. Charlie Raglan: 368
» 6. Dan Bowry: 189
» 7. Conor Thomas: 89
» 8. Chris Clements: 378
» 9. Reuben Reid: 0
» 10. Tahvon Campbell: 299 (two goals)
» 11. Ryan Broom: 280
» 14. Max Sheaf (n/a)
» 15. Will Boyle: 376 (one goal)
» 16. Alex Addai: 235
» 17. Joshua Debayo: 140
» 18. Archie Brennan: 103
» 19. George Lloyd: 115 (one goal)
» 22. Rhys Lovett: 175
» 23. Rohan Ince: 347
» 32. Luke Varney: 222 (four goals)