Young striker joins the Torquay United cause...and maybe more to come

Derby County starlet Emmanuel Ilesanmi has strengthened Torquay United’s attacking options – and he may be followed by a second signing as the Gulls seek to boost their promotion hopes (writes Dave Thomas).

Striker Ilesanmi, 20, has arrived on an initial 28-day loan from the Rams as manager Paul Wotton looks to, in his own words “take the pressure off Cody (Cooke)”.

Leading scorer Cooke, one of United’s ‘part-time’ players, is the club’s only senior centre-forward and United have often struggled without him.

“Manny is completely different to what we’ve got,” said Wotton.

“I need someone to take the load off Cody.

“Manny is quick, he can run in behind and he’s had a good goal return for Derby Under-21s.

“It takes time to become a targetman. Cody has got that experience and knows what to do.

“Manny has got that physicality, but it takes time to learn how to use it.

“I’m looking forward to getting him in and working with him.”

Ilesanmi began his career with Harrogate Town, where he made six appearances, before he moved to Derby last summer. He’s also had a loan spell with Scarborough Athletic in the NL North.

But United’s January transfer activity may not stop there.

“I’m very hopeful of another one soon,” said Wotton after he reported that captain Oscar Threlkeld, Jordan Dyer and Jay Foulston are all doubts ahead of Saturday’s home game against Hampton & Richmond.

None of those injures, all sustained in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw at Slough Town, are thought to be serious.

But Wotton is believed to be chasing a more experienced midfield player after United lost their top-of-the-table position to Boreham Wood in midweek.