Barnet sign Michael Townsend on month's loan from Cheltenham Town

Barnet have signed Cheltenham Town central defender, Michael Townsend on a month's loan and he will go straight into the side for tomorrow's match at home to League Two leaders, Wycombe Wanderers. Townsend has made 80 league starts and another 5 appearances for Cheltenham, scoring 3 goals since joining the West Country side in 2005 from Wolverhampton Wanderers

The 22 year old, 6ft. 2" central defender has made 10 first team starts for Cheltenham this season, plus another 1 appearance as a substitute and has scored 1 goal. He lost his place after Cheltenham's recent match against Colchester United. He missed much of last season with labyrinthitis, a condition which affected his inner ear and balance. Cheltenham are managed by former Barnet manager, Martin Allen.

Townsend's arrival will strengthen Barnet's defence which has been stretched to the limit by the injury to Jeremy de Magalhaes and which was, in any event, somewhat lacking in depth. Townsend will partner Ismail Yakubu with Joe Devera moving to right back to replace the suspended Max Porter who will miss the next three matches after being sent off at Rotherham at the weekend.

Barnet will be looking to extend their recent run of good form that has seen them win 3 out of their last 4 matches, but face a tough match against Wycombe who will be looking towards former Underhill favourite, Scott McGleish to score against his old club.