Town manager Joe Royle has confirmed that the loan player he is targeting is a defender. Royle said yesterday that he is keen to add a loanee to his squad ahead of the Christmas fixtures.

The Town boss told the club site: "I still feel we are short of cover at the back, should we pick up a suspension or an injury or both with so many games coming up.

"So I would like to bring a defender in and it's not impossible that we could have someone here before Christmas.

"I have spoken to one club in particular about a player this week and we shall see what develops.

"I wouldn't rule out bringing in another front player as well if we get a chance although we do have four strikers available."

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