Keith Millen has confirmed that more young players will be shipped out by the club in a bid to gain valuable first-team experience.

Young midfielder Taylor Charters has already left Brunton Park, joining up with National League North outfit Gateshead on a month-long loan deal.

The 20-year-old impressed on his debut, playing 71 minutes in a comprehensive 2-0 victory at Hereford.

Speaking of the youngster’s loan switch, Millen told News & Star: “I’m really pleased with that one because it’s a good standard.

“Taylor’s doing well, and hopefully he can go there and be one of the best players, and develop playing each week.

“It’s a month to start with, and then we’ll judge it after that. He was desperate just to play games- hopefully it’s a good move for him.

Millen hopes that those opportunities will be granted to other members of his current squad who find themselves on the periphery.

Wide man Lewis Bell, midfielder Josh Dixon and keeper duo Gabe Breeze and Scott Simons have all been tipped for temporary moves elsewhere, while young forward Sam Fishburn is also a candidate for a loan switch.

“It’s something we had a meeting about [last] week, explained the Blues boss.

“The younger players need to go out and play men’s football. We’re going to try and do more business in that respect this week.”

The Verdict:

On paper, this seems a smart move from Millen as he looks to provide the club’s young, out of favour players with an opportunity to prove their worth.

Given the club currently sit 20th in League Two, it would appear that loan moves to the non-league game are likely, however, this has often proved to be a beneficial platform for younger footballers to learn their trade.

However, with the Cumbrian side’s present predicament, supporters will be hoping that recruiting new faces is treated as an equal priority, with relegation to the National League looking a distinct threat.