Time is running out for more loan moves

It will be stock-taking time for Bryan Gunn and his management team next week as they assess whether another venture into the loan market is necessary for the relegation run-in.

The acquisition of Alan Lee, from Crystal Palace, means he is fully booked for strikers' roles - but the City boss refutes suggestions that Darel Russell's two-match ban, which begins today, shows holes in his midfield resources.

“I don't feel that,” said Gunn, who has until Thursday to make any more loan signings. “I have got players that have forced their way back into the reckoning, who deserve a chance, so they will get a chance.

“Opportunities arise - this is what I said right from the beginning. The loan players that came in might have been frustrated not to get their chance initially and had to be patient and that patience had paid off for a few now and they have got the chance

“Chances will come along - whether that's through suspension, injury, whatever. That's the reason for having a big squad and we will assess the whole situation after Saturday's game. It will give us an opportunity then to sit down for a few day to identify whether we are strong or weak in different areas. But at the moment I am happy with the players who are available for selection.”

t Young Norwich City left-back Sam Habergham has earned a call-up into England's Under-17 squad. The Academy player replaces Manchester United's Ryan Tunnicliffe, who has withdrawn from the trip to Hungary later this month, as England look to claim a spot in the Uefa European U17 Championship finals, which take place later this year.

Academy keeper Jed Steer is also included in the 18-man squad.

t City Reserves will play Wroxham at Carrow Road on Monday (7.30pm).

The visit of the Yachtsmen, from the Ridgeons League Premier Division, follows previous matches against Kirkley & Pakefield and Yarmouth.