Notts County have confirmed defender Joel Taylor has joined fellow National League side Dagenham and Redbridge ahead of kick-off at Eastleigh this afternoon.
The defender has not featured for the Magpies since their second game of the season against Boreham Wood, being named on the bench for their draws with Gateshead and Chesterfield before missing a large chunk of action through injury.
Luke Williams confirmed that the 26-year-old would miss the fixture with the Spitfires this weekend after picking up an illness ahead of their match with Torquay.
READ MORE: Eastleigh vs Notts County LIVE: Team news, match updates and reaction
It's seen as a chance to give Taylor regular game time at a fellow side in the National League, joining Daryl McMahon's side ahead fixture away to Solihull Moors this afternoon.
Whilst it's a great move for the player and the club considering the astonishing form of Adam Chicksen this season, it does offer the question of depth within the Magpies ranks in that position, should the Zimbabwean become unavailable.
Kyle Cameron can operate at left-wing back but has looked comfortable within the back three this season, forming a great understanding with summer signing Aden Baldwin at the heart of the Notts defence.
The terms of Taylor's loan deal will see him join the Daggers on an initial two-month loan, with him being unavailable to play in the FA Trophy which starts in December.
Speaking on the decision to loan out the 26-year-old, the Magpies boss said: “Joel unfortunately suffered an injury at a bad time, when he was due to go into the team. On his return, we were on a very strong run, so it’s been extremely difficult for him.
“He’s done nothing wrong, but at this stage of his career he’s desperate for regular gametime and has found an opportunity for that to happen. We think it’s the right time to support him to do that, because we can’t guarantee him the minutes he needs at the moment.
“Joel has been terrific in terms of the individual work he’s done with me and the staff while he’s been out of the team.
“He’s a strong character, we have a very good relationship, and we communicate well – which we’ll continue to do throughout his loan spell.”
READ NEXT:
- Notts County predicted line-up vs Eastleigh as Luke Williams weighs up change
- Luke Williams reveals message to Notts County players ahead of Eastleigh test
- Aden Baldwin makes Connell Rawlinson claim after injury-hit start to Notts County career
- Southend boss emphasises the quality of National League encounter with Notts County
