AS promised, Martin Allen has begun the task of trimming down his Eastleigh squad.

Central defender Connor Essam has today joined fifth-placed National League rivals Dover Athletic - his former club - on loan until the end of the season, while 20-year-old midfielder James Granger has had his contract cancelled by mutual consent.

Former Leyton Orient man Essam, one of 13 players signed by former Spitfires boss Chris Todd during the summer, has been in and out of the side since signing a one-year Silverlake deal.

The 24-year-old had one previous spell out on loan with Woking while Todd’s successor Ronnie Moore was in charge, but he was called back after a month to cover for an injury crisis.

With several players cup-tied, suspended or injured, Essam featured in Saturday’s FA Cup defeat at Brentford, but he was not included in Allen’s 16 for Tuesday’s 1-1 home draw with Forest Green and has now been shipped out again.

A club statement said: “Centre-back Connor Essam has taken the option of a return closer to his home with a loan arrangement to join Dover Athletic until the end of the season.

“We wish Connor well with his move, which was completed this afternoon with the stipulation that he will not play against Eastleigh when we play at Dover Athletic later in the season.”

Granger, a former Portsmouth youngster, has also spent time away from the Silverlake getting games with Poole Town.

He has been restricted to just one substitute appearance in the National League and one FA Trophy appearance this season.

“It was felt in the best interests of the player for him to be allowed to seek opportunities elsewhere to progress his career. We wish James all the best for the future,” read the club statement.

Eastleigh have no game this weekend and return to National League action at Paul Doswell's Sutton United on Saturday week (January 21).

The club have confirmed that FREE ENTRY football will be returning to the Silverlake on Tuesday, January 24 for the visit of Macclesfield Town.