FULHAM look set to give Sheffield Wednesday a double boost over keeper Mark Crossley.
The signs are that The Cottagers will agree to the Owls’ request for his loan to be extended until the end of the season.
It also seems likely that Fulham will allow him to play for Wednesday in the FA Cup, which would make him available for the third-round tie against Manchester City at Hillsborough on January 7.
A snag would only arise if Fulham hit unexpected problems and need Crossley back when his current loan expires on January 1.
But the Owls are now confident that he will be able to stay.
Boss Brian Lawes said: “Fulham are not against it.
“We’re letting things run for the next week or so.
“They’re quite happy so long as nothing drastic happens at their end.
“The possibility is that we can also play him in the FA Cup.”
The Owls are also laying contigency plans, just in case the position changes.
“Things are looking very positive,” said Laws, “but we are also keeping something else in mind for if Mark has to go back.”
Crossley favours an extended stay at Hillsborough; he has been a success and has enjoyed playing a part in the team’s revival.
The 37-year-old was Laws’s first signing, and the loan deal was announced the day after his appointment as manager.
The current loan deal allows the keeper to play for the Owls up to and including the New Year’s Day clash with Hull at Hillsborough (3pm).
Crossley was a team-mate of Laws at Nottingham Forest. His experience, shot-stopping and ability to organise the back four have been assets, with the team winning four of the six matches in which he has played.
He took over from Brad Jones, who went back to Middlesbrough after a three-month stay with the Owls.
Birmingham’s top-of-the-table first team visit Hillsborough on Saturday.
