ANDY KING hopes a touch of Manchester United magic has rubbed off on his players as they prepare to face Second Division life without Jimmy Davis.

The 20-year-old was due back at Old Trafford this morning to resume his career alongside David Beckham, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Sir Alex Ferguson's other multi-million pound Premiership stars.

In contrast, his teammates of 48 hours ago were starting their preparations for an unglamorous LDV Vans Trophy trip to Kidderminster.

King can no longer call on Davis in person but he believes the youngster's spirit has seeped into the County Ground squad and that can only help his troops during the remainder of the Division Two campaign.

The Town boss said: "He may have gone back to Manchester United but I hope a part of Jimmy remains with this football club.

"His ability, desire, commitment and hard work have been both first class and an inspiration.

"And I want my players to strive to reach the highest level possible."

King has lost one of his young loan stars and his first priority this morning was to avoid making it two.

Johnnie Jackson was expected to agree a third month at the County Ground today with the added bonus that Tottenham Hotspur have allowed the midfielder to play in Saturday's FA Cup clash with Huddersfield Town.

He said: "I don't want to lose any players, given the embargo situation I am in.

"I will see how John feels but I am hopeful we can agree a third month. It is a bonus that Spurs have agreed to let him become cup-tied if he stays with us."

The omens look good as, in an exclusive interview with the Evening Advertiser on Friday, Jackson indicated he was more than happy to extend his stay in Wiltshire.

He said: "It is up to Spurs I suppose, but I hope they decide to let me stay."

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Town's youngsters were hoping to play their delayed FA Youth Cup second round tie with Chelmsford City at Billericay tonight (7.45pm). The winners face a trip to Hoddesdon Town in round three.