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Transfer news: Blackpool loan Bolton's Niall Maher, but extend Francois Zoko's Bradford loan

Image: Lee Clark: Busy day of transfer dealings

Blackpool have allowed Francois Zoko to extend his stay with Bradford, while young Bolton defender Niall Maher has moved to Bloomfield Road.

The Seasiders engaged in a flurry of activity on Thursday afternoon which started with the news that midfielder Jacob Mellis had moved to Sky Bet League One side Oldham on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

The former Chelsea trainee made 14 appearances for the Tangerines after joining in the summer, but the bulk of those came under previous manager Jose Riga.

Striker Zoko, whose goal against Cardiff earned Riga his only three points, will stay with Bradford for the rest of the season.

He has made nine appearances for the Bantams but is yet to score for Phil Parkinson's men.

To offset the two losses, and the news that centre-back Grant Hall faces a month on the sidelines with ankle ligament damage, the Seasiders signed versatile teenage defender Maher on a one-month deal.

Maher is yet to appear for Wanderers' first team but has captained their development squad.

"We've been to watch him a couple of times this season and he's impressed us," manager Lee Clark said on the club's official website.

"He can play both full-back positions really well and he's really quick and strong.

"We only have one real recognised right-back at the club in Tony (McMahon) and he's had a little niggly injury, so we needed to bring someone in there. We need pressure in all positions and we feel he can help us."