Chesterfield manager Lee Richardson is optimistic about completing a loan deal for an experienced central defender in the near future.It is unlikely that there will be a new arrival before the weekend trip to Rochdale, but Richardson hopes to unveil his man before Lincoln's visit to Saltergate on March 7.

"I am hopeful of positive news within the next couple of days," said Richardson. "I have been talking to clubs about two or three lads who would fit the bill but it is all a matter of timing.

"Other clubs who have promotion or relegation battles ahead want to hold on to their players.

"They just do not want to let them go because managers want to cover their backs in case of injuries. So for us it is a waiting game."

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