Andre Gray

AFC Telford United were today bidding to extend the loan of Shrewsbury Town forward Andre Gray in time for the New Year’s Day trip to Stafford Rangers.

Gray’s initial month with the Bucks came to an end after yesterday’s 2-0 defeat at Hinckley United, a game where the teenager failed to put away a number of chances.

But he has impressed during his time with Telford, scoring his only goal in the 2-1 win at home to Stafford on Boxing Day.

And assistant manager Larry Chambers is eager to retain his services going into the second half of the Blue Square North season.

“I’ve already spoken to (Shrewsbury boss) Paul Simpson and it’s down to what he wants to do,” said Chambers. “I think he’s got one or two things he’s looking to do himself.

“If the opportunity arises then I’d love to keep Andre, but I don’t know whether we’ll be allowed to do that.

“He’s got rapid pace, he’s raw, he’s a young lad learning his trade.

“You saw yesterday the good side and the bad side of him – he had a simple chance that would only have been a consolation goal, but those things need to go in.”

Friday’s trip to Stafford is already in doubt with a cold snap predicted to grip the region over the next few days.

And Chambers felt referee Edward Smart could even have called off yesterday’s game as well, with sections of the pitch appearing to be frozen solid.

“It was difficult, on another day the referee could easily have called it off,” said the Telford No 2.

“I thought the ref was generous in having it on – the lads came in from their warm-up and they said it was hard.

“But it was the same for both sets of players so that’s not an excuse (for losing the game).”

Midfielder Danny Edwards was among the crowd at Hinckley’s Greene King Stadium, having completed his month on loan at Halesowen.

By CHRIS HUDSON