Ins and outs as Lingy shakes it all about

Much like that pesky snow and ice, the transfer window is back with a vengeance this week.

Unlike the snow it probably won't cause a national disaster, or any panic buying in the supermarkets, unless we all become addicted to Sky Sports News that is. But it does promise to keep the staff at the Abbey busy as Lingy reshapes his squad ahead of the battle for that coveted 12th place spot in the Conference. Here's a round up of the comings and goings, confirmed or otherwise, at CUFC this week.

Jon Challinor out (to Mansfield): We already knew about this one, but nevertheless it is a relief to see it go through. JC has been fairly anonymous throughout his time at United, and although he has done good stuff in the past, I suspect his career is now on a downward arc. A complete waste of £15,000 by Brabin.

Anthony Tonkin out (to Oxford): Again this has been common knowledge for a while, and I'm in two minds as to whether it's a good thing. On the one hand, Tonks has probably been our most consistent player this season, and will be difficult to replace. But do we really want to tie up a lot of our budget on an outstanding left back? Obviously in an ideal world you'd like quality players in every position, but now we are operating on a restricted budget I suspect his (presumably hefty) wages can be better used to strengthen in more important areas.

Wayne Hatswell out (to Dundalk): The news that Hats will soon be twatting 40-yard free kicks into defensive walls in the League of Ireland is unexpected post-Christmas bonus. I assumed we'd be stuck with his ageing legs until the end of the season, and given his dip in form this year it's probably the right time for him to pursue a coaching career. All the best Wayno, and thanks for memories such as this:



Luke Foster in? Fresh from his capture of Tonkin, nasty turncoat Chris Wilder was quoted on Radio Cambs this morning as saying we're in for their unwanted centre half Luke Foster. I'll confess to knowing nothing about him other than a) the fake U's used to rate him highly, and b) he fell out with the last manager who I seem to remember accused him of being a big time Charlie. Will reserve judgement on this one if it happens, but anyone's got to be better than Josh Coulson.

Matt Lockwood in? Not sure if there's anything in this or whether the link has arisen purely because the Colchester left back has worked with the Ling before and is available for loan. But if we can afford him I think he'd probably be a good addition. Although at 33 he must be past his best, he would be a senior voice in the dressing room to give the manager some back up, which you imagine would very beneficial given that Lingy doesn't have an assistant manager to call his own.