David Hodgson's Reynolds Arena reshuffle was in full flow yesterday as the new Darlington boss completed the double swoop of a promising North-East duo.
On the same day striker Mark Sheeran joined Whitby Town on a month's loan, Hodgson completed the loan signings of Middlesbrough goalkeeper Ross Turnbull and Sunderland defender Craig James.
Hodgson has already sent winger Alan Morgan back to Blackburn this week following a loan spell, while Glen Robson was handed a free transfer on Wednesday.
And today Hodgson will aim to tie up the loose ends of a third deal for a player whose identity is being kept under wraps.
However, with Sheeran allowed to join the Seasiders, there is a strong possibility Hodgson's next signing could be a striker.
Sheeran has only been on the fringes of the Quakers first-team this season and Hodgson has challenged the youngster to prove his worth at Whitby, where he will link up with former Darlington teammates Paul Campbell and Adam Reed.
"Hopefully this move will do Mark Sheeran the world of good," said Hodgson.
"I want him to go there and show us what he can do."
Full-back James has made two appearances for the Black Cats' first-team this season and joins the club on a month's loan.
The 21-year-old left-back, who can also play on the wing, was on loan at Scottish Premier League side Hibernian last season, where he made 25 appearances.
"He's local, he's got experience and Sunderland have allowed us to get the boy which is great," said Hodgson.
"And because he's on our doorstep we don't have to worry about the financial aspect with regards to accommodation for him, which is important.
"I've spoken to the lad, he understands the situation and he's well up for it which I'm really pleased about. He's played in the Scottish Premier League and the Sunderland first team so he knows what it's all about."
England Under-20 goalkeeper Turnbull also arrives for a month and will go straight into the starting line-up for tomorrow's visit of Lincoln City. "He's very highly thought of at Middlesbrough," said Hodgson. "Stephen Pears and Paul Barron (Middlesbrough's goalkeeping coaches) have both spoke so highly of this boy.
"It will take the pressure of Michael Price. I've spoken to people in the club and I've spoken to our goalkeeping coach, Mark Prudhoe about it and they agree that Pricey needs a breather.
"If we take him out of the firing line it will do him the world of good."
Meanwhile, Lincoln boss Keith Alexander remains in a stable condition after collapsing at home on Tuesday night. Alexander underwent surgery on Wednesday following a brain scan. Assistant manager Gary Simpson will take charge of team affairs tomorrow as the Imps look to extend their winning run to four games.
Read more about the Quakers here.
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