Craig Curran’s successful loan spell with Chester FC has come to an end, leaving boss Neil Young with a headache over how to replace the goal-getting forward.
Young has challenged the players who have been kept on the bench by Curran’s form to step up and fill the void left by the 23-year-old.
The Blues boss said: “Craig’s been tremendous for us. He’ll be a loss for us going into the final part of the season when everyone is strengthening. We’ve lost a big part of our attacking threat.
“Now it’s about how we plug that gap. The current lads here have got to step up to the plate. I am still scouring the loan market to see if there’s anyone out there who can fill that role but at the moment it’s been to no avail.”
Curran netted seven times in 13 appearances during his two-month stay at the Exacta Stadium. He could play as a central striker but was equally adept at playing out wide on the right, so his versatility will be missed.
The second month of his loan deal was due to end on Saturday, but Curran was recalled by Rochdale earlier this week following the sacking of manager John Coleman.
New Dale boss Keith Hill wants to run the rule over all the players at his disposal, giving Curran hope he can force his way back into favour with the League Two outfit.
The hard-working forward is earning a full-time wage at Spotland and Chester would not have been able to extend his stay, even if Dale had been willing to let him remain at the Exacta Stadium.
Young added: “Craig’s contacted me to thank everyone at the football club and all the supporters for all their support during his time here. He’s had a great time, he loved every minute of it and hopefully he can go on and carry on his League career.”
Young has been told by the Blues board that he can only bring in a new signing once players already on the club’s payroll leave.
The Chester boss is trying to create space in his budget and has informed left winger Iain Howard that he is free to speak to other clubs.
Howard, who has been with the Blues since they reformed in 2010, had talks with an Evo-Stik Premier Division club recently but decided against a move.
Young revealed: “Iain Howard’s not been playing as much as he would like. We’ve said to him if anybody comes in, he’ll be allowed to speak to clubs.
“Iain’s been fantastic for us but he’s not playing and he wants to play football. With Craig going, those opportunities may come around a bit more.
“But he wants to be playing every week.”
