WITTON Albion boss Jim Vince is cock-a-hoop after picking up Crewe Alex first-teamer Rob Lloyd on loan.
Lloyd spent three impressive months at Witton last season along with Nicky Maynard and was the first of the two to make it into the Alex team.
Since then Maynard's career has blossomed and a series of injuries has set Lloyd's career back.
He played for Witton in the FA Cup on Saturday and in last night's replay against Farsley Celtic. That he has become cup-tied suggests Crewe do not have immediate plans for him and he may be available for longer.
Vince said: 'I've been trying for a few weeks and I am sure it was a nice surprise for the fans.
'He needs to regain his match sharpness, but that he has come back shows what a good relationship we have got with Crewe. That they are willing to loan us players of this quality is marvellous.'
With Mike Bowler from Stockport County also on loan at Wincham Park and only Mark Jones (twisted ankle) not fit, Witton have a large squad with which to face Fleetwood Town in the FA Trophy at home on Saturday.
Assuming there is no replay necessary on Tuesday, Witton will host Barnton next Wednesday in the Mid Cheshire Senior Cup.
'They've got some good players and have started to play well again, but I am not worried about them,' said Vince.
'I am more concerned that our players have the right mindset. If they do, we can beat anyone because we are an attacking side that produces exciting football.
'Doing it consistently is our problem. That said, we have only lost once in 12 games.
'Yes, we have a large squad at the moment, but the players who want to be part of something special will stay.' nVince oversees a soccer coaching week for six- to 16-year-olds at Wincham Park on Monday and is available on 0774 836 7775 for full details.
