Experienced heads are needed now, says Clarke

DARRELL Clarke has confirmed that several of Cheltenham Town’s loan players have returned to their parent clubs ahead of a January squad reshuffle, writes Jon Palmer.

Right wing-back Josh Williams and striker Jovan Malcolm have returned to Birmingham and West Brom respectively, following the news on Thursday that Cam Peupion had been recalled by Brighton.

Defender Owen Bevan is back at Bournemouth as he rehabilitates from a long-term thigh injury, while Luciano D’Auria-Henry’s loan spell from Fulham was cut short in

November, leaving Nottingham Forest midfielder Oli Hammond and Arsenal forward Nathan ButlerOyedeji as the remaining loanees in boss Clarke’s squad.

It is understood that only one of the temporary additions will remain with Cheltenham for the second half of the campaign, although Bevan could return in the spring depending on how quickly he recovers.

“We had seven loans, which was too many to start with,” Clarke said. “There will be lads going back to their clubs and we thank them for their efforts, but we’ll crack on and continue to try and improve the team.”

Clarke has made no secret of his desire for experienced additions during the January window, with three or four signings expected.

“Every manager in the country will want to do their business early in the window and we are no different,” he said. “We are after a specific type of player. Experienced heads are needed – at least 100 games under their belts if possible.”

Cheltenham have their longest away trip of the season today with Carlisle the opposition in Cumbria.