Outgoing loans can only benefit Stevenage in the long run, says Boro boss

Boro boss Gary Smith has revealed the thinking behind letting Patrick Agyemang and Matt Ball leave on short term loans.

Agyemang is on a one month loan with Portsmouth, while Ball is with Blue Square South side Farnborough, also for a month.

“Matt needed some football,” said Smith.

“He’s an individual that we all feel has got great potential and prospects for the future but he’s just not been able to break into the first team squad as of yet.

“He’s a young player and a big part of any young player’s development is playing football and he just hasn’t had enough, so it’ll keep his mind nice and stimulated to be involved.

“For Pat slightly different reasons.

“Pat needs football as well, he’s keen to still show people what he’s capable off but with the additions of Beleck and Hoskins in the group his time was going to be limited and, through discussion, it was said that that would be a much better move so I hope he’s doing well.

“Pat and I have always had a good relationship and it’s a real good move on loan for him. They’re a terrific club, albeit in a tough position at the moment, but if you’re getting 11/12,000 at home when you’re in a tough spot you know that every Saturday’s a nice occasion”

Stevenage travel to Shrewsbury Town tomorrow (Saturday) hoping to end a run of three straight League 1 defeats.