THE ESSENTIAL

Sheffield United Bradford manager Stuart McCall is eager to strike a deal with Sheffield United to keep midfielder Nicky Law until the end of the season.

Birmingham City Birmingham have allowed former Arsenal striker Quincy Owusu-Abeyie to return to Spartak Moscow following the end of his loan spell.

Reading Reading captain Graeme Murty admitted to mixed emotions after the Royals were well beaten on his first appearance in almost eight months.

Southampton Southampton boss Jan Poortvliet is confident of holding onto Andrew Surman and Adam Lallana if Premier League clubs come calling this month.

Wolverhampton Wanderers Rangers striker Alan Gow will have discussions with Wolves as he closes in on a move to the Championship leaders, who have agreed a fee for him.

Nottingham Forest Nottingham Forest striker Joe Garner is hoping his goalscoring form can help him win back his starting place with Billy Davies taking charge.

Norwich City Striker Arturo Lupoli has revealed his frustration at his lack of starting opportunities with Norwich - but intends to honour his contract.

Crystal Palace Neil Warnock is looking to boolster his young side, with a new striker the main priority for his promotion candidates.

Charlton Athletic Hull City manager Phil Brown has backed his Tigers predecessor Phil Parkinson to be a huge success at Championship outfit Charlton Athletic.

Wolverhampton Wanderers Championship leaders Wolves have confirmed that on-loan England defender Michael Mancienne has returned to parent club Chelsea.

Queens Park Rangers QPR have completed the signing of on-loan striker Heidar Helguson from Bolton on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee.

Queens Park Rangers QPR have confirmed the capture of Aston Villa's Wayne Routledge for an undisclosed fee, with the winger penning a three-and-a-half-year deal.

Ipswich Town Ipswich Town's second choice goalkeeper Shane Supple is hoping to go out on loan again to gain more experience.

Coventry City Kilmarnock want to keep Donovan Simmonds on loan until the end of the season despite the Coventry striker needing hernia surgery next month.

Sheffield United League One side Northampton have extended the loan of Sheffield United defender Kyle Walker until the January transfer window.