Ebanks-Landell happy to play holding role

But before then, the 20-year-old, who has extended his loan stay until February 9, has set his sights on helping inspire Bury’s survival fight in League One.

“I’m happy here,” said the young defender. “Even though we are struggling, I’m playing well and I’m getting games, which is what I need.

“I’m hoping to help us get out of the relegation battle we’re in and hopefully do well.

“If the gaffer at Wolves sees me and rates me enough, then hopefully I’ll get back there – if not, I go back to Bury.”

While Doherty played every minute of every game during his 22 matches at Gigg Lane, scoring three goals, Ebanks-Landell has found it a bit more difficult to nail down a place in the Bury team since arriving on loan in November.

During his initial eight games, he was switched between centre-back and a midfield holding role.

It was in that position, in 4-5-1 formation, that Ebanks-Landell returned to put in a commanding performance in the 1-1 draw at MK Dons on Saturday.

“When I’m playing in midfield I can get on it (the ball) a bit more and start playing a bit more,” he said. “I would probably say I’m a better defender than I am a midfielder, but I prefer playing football.

“It’s up to the gaffer, though, I’m happy either way. Whatever benefits the team, that’s what I’m willing to do. I don’t care, as long as I’m playing. He can put me up front if he wants.”

When Bury do finally get the all-clear to dip back into the transfer market, it looks unlikely they will be going back in for former Leeds full-back Ben Parker.

Blackwell confirmed that Parker, who had been due to sign non-contract terms at Bury before the transfer embargo was imposed, is now on trial at Norwegian club Sarpsborg 08, where former Sheffield United and Leeds striker Brian Deane is manager. 

Cameron Belford remains on loan at Accrington Stanley, who have extended his loan until next week.