3 days Ago
ONE in already – and another on the way by the sounds of it. Ahead of sealing midfielder George Lapslie’s capture, Graham Alexander was making optimistic noises about a second recruit heading for City in the first week of the winter window. The entrance door to Valley Parade is unlocked and open for January business.
But what about the exit? Alexander is keen to avoid a bloated squad but numbers are inevitably stacking up. The fans will be as focused on the departures as the arrivals between now and February 3. There are obvious candidates who are not part of the current plans.
Tyler Smith has not featured in the league since his only start against Doncaster in October. He has not even made the squad for the last month. The striker was loosely linked with Tranmere in an earlier window but nothing was followed up.
Vadaine Oliver, currently recovering from minor surgery, has played only 14 minutes in the league since his last start at Fleetwood – when he was subbed at half-time. He came back from a half-season loan spell at Stevenage determined to make up for a frustrating two years with the Bantams but has been left in the shadow of Andy Cook. City also have decisions to make on veteran free agents Corry Evans and Paul Huntington as well as the loan players.
Cheick Diabate, like Smith, has not been involved at all in recent weeks and it would be no surprise to see him heading back to Exeter. But City’s fringe players have not attracted any interest as yet. Alexander said: “Potentially (that could happen), it’s the transfer window.
We haven’t heard anything about any outgoings. “There’s been no direct communication from any clubs about any of our players. “But you know what the window’s like.
Let’s see what it brings up. “There will be players in our squad that are maybe not happy with their lack of game time. But I just want to make sure we’re in a better place when we finish the window.
” City head into 2025 boosted by consecutive home wins but Alexander will monitor energy levels ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Barrow. “I’m guessing there will be a few knocks. Players have to understand that to win games you’re going to be in pain, you’re going to get kicked.
Cheick Diabate could be recalled from his loan by Exeter (Image: PA) “If you want to go into that duel and make sure you come out with the ball or stop the opponent from going towards our goal, physical contact is part of it. “That’s why we need the squad as strong as we can. So, if there’s anyone struggling a little bit, we can put them on the bench and bring somebody else in who’s just as good to help us win.
” Lapslie cannot be officially registered until tomorrow when the window opens so will not be eligible for the Holker Street clash. Gillingham boss Mark Bonner said: "George departs with our very best wishes for the future having secured a move that provides him a good opportunity and contract security. "His professionalism since I’ve arrived has been exemplary and he has contributed some important moments for us this season.
As we look to reshape the squad in January as much as we can, we know we have to make space in the squad to enable this to happen.".
