CHESTER boss Jon McCarthy admits he will be surprised if he manages to keep his squad together in January.
Despite the Boxing Day defeat at Solihull Moors, the Blues have enjoyed a promising season so far and sit in seventh, seven points adrift of the play-offs.
The performances of certain players in McCarthy's squad have attracted interest from clubs and the boss is aware he may be receiving some calls in the New Year.
Defender Sam Hughes has reportedly been watched by Championship clubs Aston Villa and Wigan Athletic with the 19-year-old starring at the back for the Blues so far this season.
Top scorer James Alabi, who has scored six times in his last eight games, will also have caught the eye with his goals.
McCarthy is hoping to extend the loans of impressive midfielder Ryan Lloyd and full-back Theo Vassell and while he is no rush no bring others in, the boss is expecting some movement in January.
“It's going to be difficult to hang on to a lot of our players because of what they've done,” he told the Chester Chronicle.
“I would be quite happy if January came and went and I still had the same squad. If we lose players then I'd have to go and ask the board to see if we could replace them.
“I just want to keep what I've got. I don't need any new presents, any new toys, I'm just happy with what I've got. I enjoy working with this group and I think there's a lot of development to come.
“Because of who we are some of that stuff is out of our hands. So I'll just get my head down and hopefully it passes smoothly and I'll continuing working with this group of players. But I'd be surprised if it does.”
