LUKE Thurlbourne has agreed a one-month extension to his loan deal at Clarence Park from League One side Southend United. Thurlbourne, aged 18, made 15 league starts for City in 2007/08 on work experience from the Rooks and excelled

LUKE Thurlbourne has agreed a one-month extension to his loan deal at Clarence Park from League One side Southend United.

Thurlbourne, aged 18, made 15 league starts for City in 2007/08 on work experience from the Rooks and excelled as City escaped relegation mire. The midfield star made an immediate impression with his all action displays but illness prevented him enjoying pre-season with Southend. He made his return to City at Newport County, coming off the bench, and looked to rediscovering his fitness with an influential display against Bognor Regis Town on Saturday. Manager Steve Castle has hailed the winning mentality of Thurlbourne and moved fast to secure Thurlbourne when it was confirmed that Southend United would agree to loan him out.