Birmingham City boss Wayne Rooney admits Fulham can recall Ipswich Town target Jay Stansfield in January - but says he hopes to keep hold of the young striker.
The 21-year-old has impressed with Birmingham since arriving on loan from the Cottagers in the summer, bagging seven goals in 23 games so far.
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One of those came in the 2-2 draw with Town in early November, and EADT chief football writer Stuart Watson revealed last week that Stansfield is of interest to the Blues in the upcoming January window.
When asked about Stansfield, Rooney admitted that Fulham have a 'small window' in which they can recall the young star next month.
He told Birmingham Live: “Jay has been great for us.
“He’s an important player for us. Of course he’s a Fulham player and he’s gained great experience here, and he will continue to do that.
"Ultimately, we have been in touch with Fulham. As far as we’re aware, he will be with us.
"Fulham have a window where they can pull him back. If that’s what they do then it’s out of our control.
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Asked when that window ends, Rooney added: “I’m not too sure off the top of my head. It’s a small window.
"I would imagine Fulham can only be delighted with the goals he’s scored here and the experience he’s getting. He’s getting a lot of minutes so we’re really hopeful that continues.”
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