Bristol Rovers winger Jeff Hughes has sung the praises of the youngster who is pushing him for his place in the team.

Northern Irishman Hughes reckons 20-year-old Ben Swallow, pictured right, has a bright future at the club.

Rovers fans could yet see both players in action today if left-back Aaron Lescott fails to recover from a knee injury in time for the game against Wycombe.

For Hughes could then be asked to play in the full-back berth, opening a gap for former Cardiff City youngster Swallow on the left of midfield.

"Ben's still only young but I'd say he's got the best feet in the club," said Hughes.

"He's nippy, he's really quick off the mark and when he gets it right, you can't really stop him.

"All he really needs now is to get consistency into his game and he's going to be some player.

"He's more of an out-and-out winger than me and he can leave two or three people for dead, which isn't really my game.

"If he keeps doing well, I'm going to have to push into central midfield to make sure I get a game!"

Swallow, who recently signed a new two-and-a-half year contract with Rovers, is still waiting for his first senior goal whereas Hughes hold a narrow lead on top of the club scoring chart this season with eight in all competitions.

Chris Lines and Jo Kuffour are only one behind and Hughes said: "I'm sure things are going to chop and change over the coming weeks as to who is top scorer.

"Chris is in form and has scored some vital ones for us this season – and I fancy that Darryl Duffy can get a few for himself too if he gets a run in the side."

Rovers' on-off pursuit of Colchester United defender Pat Baldwin was brought to an end yesterday when the player joined Essex rivals Southend United on loan until the end of the season.

The 27-year-old made six appearances for Rovers during a loan spell with the club but then turned down the offer of a permanent move.

Boss Paul Trollope says although Rovers are still working to try and bring new faces in before the transfer window shuts at 5pm on Monday, they may have to a further week and then do business in the emergency loan market.