THE ESSENTIAL

Bradford City Bradford boss Peter Taylor has offered Peter Thorne the chance to join his coaching team after he agreed to have his playing deal cancelled.

Crewe Alexandra Highly-rated Crewe teenager Max Clayton has agreed professional terms with the League Two club, much to the delight of chairman John Bowler.

Chesterfield Chesterfield's promotion hopes have been dealt a further blow with news Derek Niven could be out for up to six weeks with an ankle injury.

Lincoln City Chris Sutton insists Lincoln must get to grips with defending set-pieces if they are to continue their ascent towards League Two safety.

Darlington Darlington manager Steve Staunton has vowed not to quit and has "no doubts" he will improve the club's on-field fortunes.

Burton Albion Burton manager Paul Peschisolido has signed Benin international Romuald Boco until the end of the season, subject to official confirmation.

Barnet Barnet manager Ian Hendon has quashed reports linking Albert Adomah with Championship clubs and dismissed suggestions he could leave on loan.

Notts County Notts County produced one of the shocks of the fourth round by beating Wigan 2-0 in their FA Cup replay. Stephen Hunt's 75th minute header and an own goal from Gary Caldwell three minutes later did the damage. County caretaker boss Dave Kevan said: "It's been a very enjoyable evening. Wigan put us under a lot of pressure but we held on and did very well."

Notts County Executive chairman Peter Trembling wants to get Notts County's transfer embargo lifted by next week to boost the club's promotion prospects.

Darlington Darlington chairman Raj Singh has moved to reassure supporters that the struggling League Two club is moving in the right direction.

Torquay United Torquay United boss Paul Buckle is braced for a busy January transfer window as he looks to further bolster his Gulls squad.

Bournemouth Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe believes he has picked the right man to lead the Cherries' promotion bid after naming Jason Pearce as team captain.

Notts County Notts County will try to resurrect a deal for Nottingham Forest defender Brendan Moloney should they secure major investment in the club.

Crewe Alexandra Crewe Alexandra boss Dario Gradi has offered a permanent contract to goalkeeper Steve Phillips, who is currently on loan from Bristol Rovers.

Cheltenham Town Cheltenham have appointed former Town players Mark Yates and Neil Howarth as the club's new manager and first-team coach respectively.