Cardiff City have as many as eight players currently out on loan. It is perhaps reasonable to say none of them have impressed quite as much as James Connolly at Bristol Rovers.
The 20-year-old centre-back was a rock at the heart of Steve Morison's defence during the first portion of the season for the under-23s, whom he captained, and it was no surprise to hear that Gas boss Joey Barton had wanted him at the Rec for some time.
The only way you find out whether a young player can cut it in the Football League is by exposing them to the beast itself. Given Connolly has been selected to start in every game in which he has been available - he has made 20 appearances since January - it's clear to see what the Rovers coaching staff think of him.
