WES Atkinson has ended his loan spell with Eastleigh after being recalled by parent club Notts County.

But Spitfires boss Chris Todd is hoping it won’t be the last the National League club see of the 21-year-old former West Bromwich Albion right-back.

Eastleigh signed Atkinson on a month-long emergency loan deal on November 20 to help cover for a spate of defensive injuries which saw Jamie Turley, Dan Harding and Paul Reid all sidelined.

The energetic, young defender made three starts for the club and has left a lasting impression on Todd who has earmarked him as “someone I would like to work with in the future.”

Todd said: “Wes has been called back from his loan by Notts County, otherwise we would have kept him.

“He’s done brilliant for us and shown himself to be a very talented player.

“If he became available, he’s someone I’d look to do something with in the future.

“He’s a nice lad, really honest, and totally professional in what he does. He’s a credit to himself.”

Fortunately for Eastleigh, the bulk of their injury problems are now behind them.

Reid was back to skipper the side against Kidderminster Harriers last Saturday, while Turley is ready to rejoin the squad at Bromley on Boxing Day after more than a month out with hamstring trouble.

“We’re not too bad injury-wise now, most of the lads are back,” said Todd.

“It would have been handy if our Hampshire Senior Cup game at Winchester had been played on Tuesday because Turls (Turley) needs a game, but it is what it is. He’ll train hard and work his way back into the team.”

Ex-Saints left-back Harding remains a concern after his comeback from a calf problem was cut short at Aldershot in the FA Trophy two weeks ago.

“Dan’s been out a while now and when he comes back we’ve got to look after him and do things the right way,” said Todd. “We don’t want to push him too hard and set him back again.”