York City have made Ben Brookes and Ash Palmer available for loan after omitting the pair from their registered Football League squad. Head coach Scott Lindsey confirmed the decision, stating both players need regular minutes that cannot be guaranteed at the LNER Community Stadium, with the club's current squad depth limiting opportunities.
The 22-man squad for the first half of the Sky Bet League Two season was submitted this week, with Brookes and Palmer the notable absentees. Lindsey said the move was designed to allow the players to find game time elsewhere, though he stressed the door was not closed on their futures with the Minstermen. The club used 21 of their 22 available slots, leaving one space open.
Squad reshuffle opens door
Ben Brookes is strongly linked with a move to Sutton United. If the left wing-back departs, Harry Boyes is the outstanding candidate to take the role, with Craig Hewitt also a potential option for cover. The free squad place could be used to add a free agent if both Brookes and Palmer secure moves away, though Lindsey noted a formal request to the FA or EFL would be required to register a new player.
To help adhere to EFL rules requiring a homegrown player within the 22-man squad, young defender Ben Farrar has been included in the registered group. This strategic shuffle comes as York, who are third in the standings on 11 points, look to maintain their strong form of three wins from their last five matches. Their next challenge is an away trip to face 12th-placed Chesterfield on Saturday, a key fixture in their early promotion push.
Lindsey’s immediate focus is on maintaining a promotion push from a strong early position. The manager reiterated that finding the right loan moves for Brookes and Palmer is the priority, allowing them to develop while keeping options open for a potential return.
More detail at yorkpress.co.uk
