FC CLACTON could have a new face in their squad for Saturday’s trip to Long Melford.

The Seasiders are hoping to sign a midfielder on a short-term deal until Christmas.

The club are short in that area with Wayne Chapman suspended and Jack Clampin unavailable.

And there is a chance Charlie Thompson could also miss out after he suffered a back injury in training on Saturday (see page 54).

Boss David Coyle has taken measures and is hoping to complete a signing before the weekend.

The player in question is currently with AFC Sudbury.

“We’re waiting on one player coming in,” said Coyle.

“It would just be a short-term arrangement, until Christmas.

“Sudbury have said ‘yes’, the player has said ‘yes’ and, as far as I’m aware, everyone is happy for it to go through.

“We’re just waiting for confirmation from the Sudbury secretary, but hopefully it’ll happen in time for Saturday.”

Full-back Parris Newland will be in the squad, despite fears last week that he might be unavailable due to work commitments.

However, Blake Panrucker is taking a break from football and will not be available in the short-term.

Clacton are back at the Rush Green Bowl on Tuesday for a Thurlow Nunn League premier division match against Ipswich Wanderers (kick-off 7.45pm).

It will be the first of two home games in quick succession, with Felixstowe and Walton paying a visit on Saturday, December 5.