Sinclair signing delights Downing

Robins boss Keith Downing has now made three loan signings

Cheltenham manager Keith Downing says it was essential he brought in Dean Sinclair on loan from Charlton.

The Addicks midfielder rejoins the Robins for a month, having spent the early part of last season on loan at Whaddon Road.

Downing told BBC Gloucestershire: "Our midfield has become a bit bare in the last two or three weeks.

Dave Bird has an ankle injury and John Finnigan is only making slow progress. Dean gives us different options."

Sinclair is the third loan signing for Cheltenham in the last week, following the acquisition of Barry Hayles and Jennison Myrie-Williams.

The moves come after a summer of frustration for the Robins, who missed out on permanent deals for half a dozen potential signings.

Downing said: "Dean is one I've chased for quite a while. He realised it would benefit him to get some football.

"You become aware of players who haven't been in their first teams, and it opens things up a bit.

"Barry was a good example because he wasn't going to figure for Leicester. We've been able to capitalise on that."