Chris Powell has praised Ross Wilson for persuading Wigan Athletic to waive the standard recall clause on loan man Grant Holt.

Now the hope is Huddersfield Town’s director of football operations can persuade his old mate Malky Mackay to sanction an extended stay for the striker beyond December 28.

Wilson and Mackay, appointed new Latics manager despite being under Football Association investigation, worked together at Watford.

Holt’s initial switch to Town took place when Uwe Rosler was in charge of Wigan, with relations between manager and player having broken down.

It could be that Mackay, accused of racism and anti-semitism over e-mails and texts sent when he was Cardiff City boss, wants Holt back when his current loan ends.

It’s also possible other clubs could come in for the 33-year-old front-runner, who is aiming for an 11th Town outing at Bolton Wanderers this Saturday.

“Grant is certainly our player until final whistle goes when we play Bolton at home on December 28,” said Powell.

“It was the maximum we can do.

“I’m really pleased Ross managed to sort it out without a recall clause, and at this stage, I’m not looking beyond that date.

“I’ve not spoken to Malky yet.

“Obviously he will have to get himself settled at Wigan. He has to work without Grant initially, and hopefully he will get used to it!

Of course he is Wigan’s player, so we are in their hands. We just need to continue working with Grant the way we have done.

“Hopefully he will continue to play at the level he has, creating chances and scoring goals himself.”

Town have cut admission prices for their next home Championship game, against Brentford on Saturday week, December 6.

Admission to all areas will be £10 adults and seniors and £5 Under 18s.