Fraser move in doubt, January call-up confirmed and Newcastle asked to extend loan

Southampton boss Russell Martin has cast doubt over a permanent move for Ryan Fraser, despite his impressive loan stint at St Mary's.

Martin was asked about the winger's future after he scored twice and set up another in the Saints' 4-0 win over Walsall in the FA Cup, admitting he is keen to keep the Newcastle outcast. However, he fears the chances of a permanent deal are 'low' due to the 'finances involved.'

Elsewhere, Yankuba Minteh has been called up to Gambia's final 27-man squad for the African Cup of Nations. The winger has impressed during his loan spell at Feyenooord and will take on Senegal, Cameroon and Guinea in their group, playing on the 15th, 19th and 23rd of January.

Last but not least, Crewe Alexandra are hoping to extend Joe White's loan spell, which is currently due to expire on January 14th. The Geordie midfielder scored Crewe's winner in a 1-0 win at Mansfield over the weekend, netting three goals and three assists so far this season. However, the League Two boss admits it's "in Newcastle's hands", despite White wanting to extend his stay.

Russel Martin (Southampton) on Ryan Fraser:

“I don’t know (if he'll sign permanently), it’s out of my remit really. Would I like to make it permanent? Yes. The chance of that happening I think, because of the finances involved, the timing and his situation, is low.

“I don’t know if it will be feasible right now but he just needs to keep doing what he is doing, he is in a really good place and enjoying it. We will see but I am pretty sure he would love to stay here beyond this season.”

Lee Bell (Crewe) on Joe White: 

"It is in Newcastle’s hands – Joe wants to stay and we want him to stay.

“I’m going to have to speak to them again and try to sort something. We are giving him the opportunity to play and express himself and that will help him further down the line. I’ll talk to them; I’m not sure what they will do.”