DARLINGTON boss David Hodgson last night insisted Martin Gray still has a major role to play at the club despite his demotion to youth-team coach.

Hodgson has expressed his growing concern with the rate at which talented youngsters are being produced. Only a handful of players - including Chris Hughes and David McGurk - have made the grade in recent years and Hodgson sees assistant manager Gray as the man to address the problem.

"I know that titles are very important to some people but they don't mean anything at this club," said Hodgson. "The amount of kids coming through our youth system is minimal and that's why I want Martin to take care of it.

"The coaching at youth level has virtually came to a standstill and that needs to change. Martin has learnt a lot in the game and he will be able to use that."

Gray has been on the Quakers coaching staff since retiring from the game three years ago and recently passed his first Uefa coaching badge at Lilleshall.

In November last year the former Sunderland midfielder was promoted from youth-team coach to assist Hodgson following his return to the club.

"Martin was upset when I told him what I wanted to do," admitted Hodgson.

"When I sat down with him and give him a few days to cool down he understood the situation.

"He's a massive part of this club and I'm sure he will eventually go into management."

Gray will work alongside former boss Mick Tait, who is overseeing the recruitment of youngsters.

Former Quakers defender Neil Aspin has been touted as a possible replacement for Gray.

However, Northern Echo SPORT understands talks have already taken place between Hodgson and a successful Premiership coach.

Hodgson meanwhile has urged League Two rivals Notts County to make a decision on defender Matt Clarke.

The protracted transfer all hinges on County striker Paul Heffernan's transfer to Bristol City.

County cannot sign Clarke until Heffernan is removed from the wage bill.

However, Heffernan's move has been put on hold with both club's in dispute over a fee for the player.

"We were first informed of Notts County's interest in Matt six weeks ago," said Hodgson.

"They explained the financial situation and we were willing to let him talk even though he was still under contract with us.

"I spoke to Gary Mills (County boss) and he said they were unable to go ahead with the transfer until they let a player go.

"I had a replacement lined up for Matt but that fell through because we could not guarantee what was happening.

"I've told them Matt is staying put. But if we get a defender and they come back to us we could sort something out."

Hodgson has also confirmed talks with former Fulham striker Dirk Lehmann.

The 32-year-old spent last season in his native Germany playing in the 2. Bundesliga for Jahn Regensburg.

Lehmann, who also had spells in Scotland with Hibernian and Motherwell, is expected make a decision over the weekend.

Hodgson is also keen to bolster his left-sided options and has identified two other potential targets.

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