BOSS Andy Ritchie has hailed Phil Jevons’ commitment to the Town cause after the on-loan Bristol City striker got the green light to play in Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Grimsby.

The 28-year-old striker has persuaded his parent club to do a U-turn on their original decision not to allow him to become cup-tied.

It’s another indicator that the former Everton player, who also had a spell with Grimsby, is eager for a permanent move to the Galpharm.

While no business can be done until the transfer window reopens in January, Jevons is desperate to get in as many games as possible in a bid to impress.

“The perfect scenario for me would be to play in the third round of the FA Cup having just signed a contract with Huddersfield Town,” he said.

“This is a really good club with a really good set of players and a manager who has respect throughout the game, and I just want to show him what I can do.”

Jevons, who signed just before the loan deadline a week ago, made his debut as a substitute in Saturday’s 1-0 home League I defeat by Leyton Orient.

“I was pleased with how I went but I know there’s a lot more to come from me,” added the man whose initial month on loan runs out after the trip to Cheltenham on December 22, although the loan can be extended outside the transfer window.

“I was frustrated at the thought of not being able to play in the cup-tie, so I had a word with Gary Johnson (the Bristol City manager) and managed to talk him round!

“I know I’m by no means certain to play, especially if Andy Booth gets over his back injury, but at least I’m competing for a place now.”

Ritchie, who watched Booth take part in a full training session today, said: “Phil took it upon himself to ask Gary Johnson if he would reconsider, and I’m delighted at the outcome.

“It’s great to have options ahead of the Grimsby game, and Phil gives us plenty of those.

“Hopefully Boothy will show his fitness as well, because having plenty of players to choose from is the kind of headache a manager likes to have!

Jevons had three years with Grimsby between 2001-04.

A £250,000 signing from Everton, he played 70 times, scoring 21 goals, before moving to Yeovil.

“With players moving around so much these days, there’s not that many people left from my time at Grimsby,” said Jevons.

“Quite a few of the people behind the scenes are still there though, and while I enjoyed my time at the club, I’ll be doing everything possible to get Huddersfield into round three.”

Town already had permission to play their other loan man, West Brom midfielder Ronnie Wallwork, in the FA Cup.

He was a key player in the come-from-behind 3-2 win at Accrington Stanley in round one.

l Town reserves drew 1-1 with Leicester last night. Report Page 42.