THE ESSENTIAL

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.

Hereford United Hereford United have received a boost with the news the local council are willing to provide new long-term leases for Edgar Street.

Grimsby Town On-loan Grimsby defender Olly Lancashire has extended his stay at Blundell Park by a third month from League One club Southampton.

Notts County Notts County have confirmed that manager Hans Backe has resigned just seven weeks after signing a three-year contract at Meadow Lane.

Grimsby Town Plymouth defender Damien McCrory and Barnsley midfielder Michael Coulson have extended their loan spells with League Two side Grimsby.

Cheltenham Town John Schofield feels he is the right man to land the Cheltenham manager's job on a permanent basis following Martin Allen's recent departure.

Bury Bury skipper Stephen Dawson has rejected a new contract as he "believes he can play at a higher level", the Gigg Lane club have confirmed.

Bournemouth Bournemouth have asked the Football League to loosen the shackles on their transfer embargo "in light of the progress" the club are making.