CITY are monitoring Newcastle winger Alex Gilliead.

The 20-year-old is available to take on loan after finishing a half-season spell at Luton last week.

Stuart McCall is looking to add another wide man to his squad during the transfer window and confirmed: "He is one on the radar."

Right winger Gilliead scored twice in 21 appearances with the Hatters. He spent last season at Carlisle, where he played 41 times with five goals.

Meanwhile, McCall is hoping an end is in sight to Billy Clarke's gradual recovery from a torn calf.

Clarke joined the squad for the ball warm-up at the start of training yesterday before working on his own again with fitness coach Chris Short.

The plan is for the striker, who has not been involved since the Rochdale game on November 12, to play some part in the Checkatrade Trophy next week.

McCall said: "As much as Billy thinks he is pain free and feels good in himself, he has been out over eight weeks now.

"He is obviously desperate to play again but he almost needs a mini pre-season as such to work on his cardio.

"When you are coming back after that long out, you have to look at all the other muscles.

"It has been frustrating for him and for us. He was very influential before the injury.

"He has been a big player for us. He suits the way we play and has been a big catalyst for what we have done this season.

"Be it as a number ten, a striker or at the top of the diamond, he is a good footballer and we have missed him."

City will also keep a close eye on James Hanson through the week after he missed the win over Chesterfield.

McCall said: "He's feeling a slight discomfort again and we'll just have to see how he reacts in the next couple of days. It shouldn't be anything too long."