Blues boss Paul Jewell says he decided to recall winger Lee Martin from his spell at Charlton on the advice of Town's backroom staff. The Blues utilised their 24-hour call back option on the 23-year-old former Manchester United man on Tuesday.

Reserves coach Chris Kiwomya, keeper-coach Jim Hollman, fitness coaches Antonio Gomez and Simon Thadani and chief scout Steve McCall remain at the club from the pre-Jewell era and the new manager says he consulted with them before making decisions on Town's on-loan players.

Jewell said: “I spoke to some of the staff about the players on loan and they seemed to think that at this moment in time Lee would be an addition to our squad to try and improve us. Our defensive record isn’t too bad, but we haven’t scored a lot of goals, so he’s just another option really.

“I know he’s been on loan at a few clubs. I saw him play for Sheffield United against Manchester City when that balloon was on the pitch and it was blowing a gale. I saw him play really well in that game.

“I think the club paid quite a lot of money for him from Manchester United, something like £2 million. I don’t know what happened there, but he’s welcome here and it’s up to him to get in the team.

“I’ve had a quick chat with him and he’s fine. He’s more than happy to come back because this is a great football club. At least he’s had some games at Charlton, although he didn’t play at the weekend. Like everyone, it’s up to Lee.”

Kevin Lisbie, who is at Millwall for the season, can also be recalled at 24 hours’ notice, while Pablo Couñago’s season-long spell at Crystal Palace can be curtailed if all three parties — both clubs and the player — agree to do so.

Story syndicated from TWTD.co.uk

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