ETHAN Ebanks-Landell is expected to extend his loan deal until the end of the season after becoming central to manager Kevin Blackwell’s new-look side.

The Bury boss has confirmed talks have been held with the Championship club and a deal should be completed before his contract runs out this Saturday.

“I have spoken to Wolves and they are happy for us to keep him until the end of the season, so when that comes up we will do that,” said Blackwell.

The 20-year-old Wolves player was brought to Gigg Lane as a central-defender but has since created a niche role for himself at the base of the Bury midfield.

However, his ability to drop back into defence is seen as crucial by Blackwell as he bids to build a squad short on numbers but high on quality.

The Shakers boss cited Ebanks-Landell’s flexibility as one of the reasons he was happy to drop Efe Sodje last Saturday.

That decision left Bury with no defensive cover on the bench and sent a clear message to the 40-year-old defender he is now surplus to requirements at Gigg Lane.

Blackwell moved this week to further bolster his defence by signing up Euan Holden on non-contract terms.

The 25-year-old younger brother of Bolton Wanderers’ American midfielder Stuart Holden is predominantly a left-back, but can play anywhere along the back line.

The Shakers manager is now tracking a striker, confirming he had invited a Spanish forward for a trial at Gigg Lane this week. But he said he would not be making too many more additions to his squad.

“We know who the targets are and we are working on something, but I’m really pleased with the players we have at the moment,” said Blackwell.

“Obviously we are going to be short, but I’m not really worried about that. “What I am worried about is that, if I have only got 12, 13 or 14 players, that they are good enough.

“That’s what will see us through to the end of the season.”