FOREST Green boss David Hockaday has backed Matt Bulman's request to go out on loan.

The Rovers' number two will be made available for a loan move after this Saturday's opening league game against Hyde at The New Lawn.

The 26-year-old approached Hockaday with the proposal, in order secure game time and put more pressure on Rovers number one Sam Russell.

Hockaday said: "Bully came to me and said 'I want to go out on loan, I want to be playing and I want you to come and watch me'.

"He feels he can put more pressure on Sam if he's playing rather than if he's sat on the bench. I think that's a pretty good shout."

The former Swindon Town and Cirencester stopper started only one game last season, against AFC Totton in the FA Trophy, and made just five appearances in total with none in the league.

"Bully's contract is up at the end of the season and he's determined not to spend another year sat on the bench. That's the kind of attitude I want to see."

Rovers have brought in two young keepers as further cover, who have be training full-time with Rovers over the past few weeks.

"The quality of keeping at training has really gone through the roof because of the competition. It's great to see."