Chris Powell ready to turn salesman to bolster Huddersfield Town squad

Chris Powell is ready to go on a charm offensive to freshen up his Huddersfield Town squad.

The manager says bringing in new recruits is seldom straightforward, especially at this stage of the season, but certainly not impossible.

While plenty of players are available, terms have to suit both parties.

And rival suitors have to be seen off, not always easy when the budget is strict.

“It’s a busy spell, that’s for sure, and there are plenty of calls being made,” explained Powell.

“I’d love to be able to make an announcement, but these things can often take time.

“Just when you think you are getting somewhere, a deal can slow down.

“I know that this time last year, the club spent big on Nahki Wells, and we also brought in Joe Lolley.

“We aren’t going to be investing on that scale this time, and I am comfortable with our financial approach.”

The boss added: “We might not be able to spend like a top-six club would do, but I do believe we can make good acquisitions.

“You have to be clever, like we were with Grant Holt, and you can get players who can do a good job at this level.

“We have a good group of players here, but we need a few to come in and help them along.”

Powell is ready to turn salesman in order to tempt his targets.

“There might have to be a bit of the Chris Powell charm,” he smiled.

“You have to sell them yourself and the club, tell them your aspirations and expectations.

“We have a good club here.

“When you are familiar with it, as I am and the supporters are, you tend to forget what’s on offer.

“Visitors come here, they have a look at our stadium and training ground, and they are impressed.

“We have really good coaches and staff here, our Under 18s and 21s are strong, and we have a loyal fanbase.

“All the foundations are there, and I have to show players that we have genuine and realistic aspirations.

“For younger players, like Conor Coady who came in from Liverpool, it’s somewhere to learn and develop.

“For older players, it’s a chance to be a leader and show you still have something to offer.

“I have been in that position myself, and it is a motivation.”

Powell says Jon Stead, who has returned to Bradford City on loan until the end of the season, is likely to the first of a number of departures.

But he’s hoping to keep hold of all his big hitters.

“You are wary of offers coming in for players,” he admitted.

“It can happen, and I don’t like standing in the way of someone improving themselves, as long as the deal is right for the club.

“You are at the mercy of clubs who have money to spending on good players, and we have some of those.”