It was 7pm last night when Southend finally confirmed that their transfer embargo had been lifted. The have registered 15 new players along with the five retained from last season, and are awaiting international clearance for two more. Cheltenham have signed Birmingham winger Robin Shroot on loan. The 22 year old former non-league ace had a spell at Burton last term.
Rotherham have had a bid rejected by Tranmere for striker Ian Thomas-Moore. The 33 year old is the son of Millers boss Ronnie Moore, and is now understood to have put in a transfer request at Prenton Park. The Millers have signed Shrewsbury defender Dean Holden on a months loan as cover for injuries. Rushden midfielder Lee Tomlin has signed for Peterboro for an undisclosed fee. He was previously the subject of a six-figure bid from Crawley.
Stockport are reported to be signing Preston youngster Jamie Proctor on loan next week. The two sides meet in the Carling Cup on Tuesday, and the deal is reported to be taking place afterwards. Port Vale's potential investor Mike Newton has challenged chairman Bill Bratt to a public debate. Newton says his first act will be to shut down the Directors Lounge at Vale Park saying 'the days of white wine and finger rolls are over'.
Chester have said they would love to have Michael Owen playing for them after he revealed to a national newspaper that he almost got involved in buying the club before it folded. His father played for Chester City in the Seventies.