Palmer on Trial

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 15/03/2005

STOKE City Striker Jermaine Palmer has arrived at Blundell Park for a trial, and goes straight into action against Man Utd in the Pontins League Cup tonight.The 18-year-old target man has made just one appearance for City this season.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis has let the six footer come to Blundell Park with a view to a possible loan signing later in the season, possibly when the Matt Harrold loan from Brentford ends in around a fortnight's time.

Town boss Russell Slade told the Grimsby Telegraph: "Tony (Pulis) is a good friend of mine and has been good in letting Jermaine come for a trial. We have been given permission for him to play against United for the reserves.

"If he shows promise, we may have the option to bring him in on loan."

With Slade confirmed as Town manager next summer, he will also have one eye on next season's Grimsby squad. With most of the current team out of contract at the end of the season there will inevitably be some personnel changes at Blundell Park come May.