Liverpool striker Neil Mellor could become a target for Joe Royle this season as the Town boss utilises the loan system. The club's period of administration meant the Blues were unable to make short-term signings during the second half of last season.

Royle says that youngster Mellor, who played for Liverpool against Town in the Worthington Cup last season, is the sort of player he could look to: “Neil is a very promising player and if we had to look for a loan striker he would definitely fit the bill.

"It's not a position where we need strengthening at the moment but I like Mellor. He's one I would consider if I had to."

Royle says he will use loans to supplement his squad: "I am delighted with the quality of our first 14 or 15 players, but after that we are a bit thin.

"Last season even Portsmouth, the champions, made good use of loan players, as did other clubs like Wolves, Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest to good effect."

Everton keeper Paul Gerrard was Town's only loan player last season, spending a month with the Blues in the autumn before succumbing to a knee injury.

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