CHERRIES development squad head coach Alan Connell has detailed the club’s “more strategic plan” to youth loans following the step up to Category Two academy status.

This summer saw Cherries’ academy status upgraded, allowing the development squad to compete in the Professional Development League.

Previously Cherries’ highest age group had been limited to cup competitions when it came to competitive football, meaning players often were sent out on loan in the latter half of the season.

However, with the development squad having to contend with a full fixture list, Connell admitted that the approach to loans had changed.

He told the Daily Echo: “In previous years the under-21s didn't have a fixture programme, pretty much everyone was available for loan.

“Generally, you know, there might be some fixtures to fulfil, as we had.

“But it's definitely a more strategic plan this year.

“But you have to react to situations.

“Sometimes a club can come in for a player you didn't expect, or a player that you thought might go on loan, doesn't fit for whatever reason.

“So you always have to have a plan, but also react, for sure.

“And I mean, just in January already, we've obviously got players that have gone on loan and there’s still obviously a couple of weeks to go in the window.

“So we'll just have to take each situation as it comes and as it arises.

“We always make the best informed decision for the player and the club.”

One player likely to head back out on loan is Guyana international Nathan Moriah-Welsh.

The versatile midfielder spent last year on loan at League Two Newport County, but an injury suffered on international duty curtailed plans for another league loan over the summer.

“Nathan picked up an injury away on international duty in the summer, and he was out for a few months with that,” continued Connell.

“So we obviously had to rehab him and got him back playing September time after the window shut.

“He's brought so much quality and energy to our training and our games.

“He's in a really good place at the moment.

“We'll have to be very open and flexible to what happens in January with him. And, if something suitable comes up for player and club, then obviously we'll look to do that.”

Cherries development squad are in action on Tuesday evening, when they continue their Hampshire Senior Cup campaign away at Folland Sports (7.45pm).

“We always do our best to watch the opposition, and we prepare the game as we always do,” Connell replied when asked about facing a senior team.

“Obviously different teams have different ways of playing, strengths and weaknesses you have to look at.

“So we'll do our homework as we always do, and we'll make sure we're prepared for that game Tuesday.”