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At risk of posting a bit too soon, firstly I wish Masha a speedy recovery and will happily donate to any organised collection - absolutely gutted for the lad.

BUT given time is of the essence, Lee really needs to 'do the unthinkable' and at least bring someone in for a month, and as soon as possible.

My suggestion (no idea how feasible) is there's a young lad at Rochdale called Scott Tanser, 20yo 6ft left sided defender (can play CB or FB) who played loads in L1 last season but hasn't started this season first-choice.

Any other ideas?

Some interesting names released from FGR

In particular, Sam Russell the goalkeeper who has played in the North West and would be a great signing for us (although might be a bit ambitious there...)

Deciding his future in the next week or so, hasn't ruled out staying with Telford - but has specifically cited his 2-hour commute as being a key factor, and I believe he's North West based.

Halifax one club rumoured to be interested, but if (as he says...) money isn't the main factor as he's 31, surely if we have any ambition we must be in for him...?

I've mentioned a couple of times on other threads about Bury's continual overspending

http://www.theguardian.com/football/david-conn-inside-sport-blog/2014/nov/12/bury-high-interest-loans-shadow-recovery

Apparently, the fans have been sticking their head in the sand about this for some time.  The content of that article should make for truly frightful reading.

Wouldn't be surprised if we have a new derby in a couple of years (unless they plummet past us)...

...I've observed a few comments on other threads, so I'll start a new one.

How much do we think Lee's geographical location (and as such, his NW contact book) is hindering us from freshening up the team as required throughout the season?  Or is it simply a budget thing (i.e. no free wages combined with a point-blank refusal to release anyone currently on the books)?

Observe Keith Hill at Rochdale and David Flitcroft at Bury - both done well in relatively young managerial careers (and best mates to boot). I bet a large proportion of their success has been down to the fact they're 'Northwest Journeymen' that can pick up the phone at the drop of a hat, and get things done.

From following Rochdale to a certain degree (hence recommending signing Cav this summer), off the top of my head I know 3 other lads on the fringes of their first team that are worth enquiring re: loans. Bury signed 2 starting XIs this season (hence why they'll probably be in administration again in 12 months), there will be lads there as well.

I'm not saying we necessarily get anyone now, but just wondered - have we ever contacted these people? As pointed out with the Oldham lad at Alfreton, surely these are the clubs we should tie in with as much as possible?

We make it all sound so easy don't we!  I'd just LOVE another Shotton to walk through the door, that's all.

Was speaking to Peter Cavanagh on Twitter the other night, he's not fixed himself up with another gig since his release by Rochdale at the end of the season.

Asked him about going part-time and playing for Alty, seemed to welcome the idea and I think he's doing his coaching badges.

Was an absolute revelation for Dale in the holding midfielder position, there's some daft stat like he only conceded once all season with him on the pitch.

Basically, he's exactly what we need.