Raven, who was recently released by First Division Grimsby Town, was formerly a regular with West Bromwich Albion. In total he played over 300 games for the Baggies in an 11-year-stay from 1989 until 2000. He began his career with Doncaster Rovers. Collins had been in talks with Raven for the past couple of days and was delighted after clinching the deal that could see the defender go straight into the side at Oxford United on Saturday. The manager has been keen to bring some know-how into his struggling defence which has conceded 53 goals in 31 games this season. Raven could replace the injured Darren Kelly in the weekend clash at the Kassam Stadium. Kelly limped out of Saturday's 2-2 draw with Kidderminster Harriers to be replaced by Lee Andrews. Raven is expected to start alongside Peter Murphy if Kelly is not able to recover in time. Andrews is likely to continue on the bench. Meanwhile, the Stuart Green transfer saga continues with United owner John Courtenay reported to be in talks with his Hull City counterpart Adam Pearson. Hull are willing to let him go if the price is right but Carlisle may be trying to get him on loan until the end of the season. It is unlikely that the Tigers will agree to this, however. They paid £150,000 to Newcastle to secure his services and there is a 50% sell-on clause on any transfer profit inserted in his contract. Hull will want to get their money back on Green after just 7 weeks as a permanent City player. Picture from News & Star |
