Welling United defender Ben Jefford has joined Ebbsfleet United on loan for a month.

The 20-year-old has made 23 appearances for Welling in the Vanarama Conference this season and now he's set for a taste of Conference South action with Fleet.

Jefford is ineligible for Tuesday night's FA Trophy replay against Braintree although he would be able to play at North Ferriby next Saturday if Jamie Day's side reach the quarter-finals.

Welling operations manager Barry Hobbins said: "Ben needs game time and it is a chance to play regular football for a month.

"Ebbsfleet have got an injury to Joe Howe so they need cover in that position."

Howe dislocated his shoulder at Braintree in midweek, as Fleet held their Conference opponents to a 1-1 draw in the Trophy, and he now has to wear a sling for three weeks.

Ebbsfleet travel to Gosport on Saturday while Welling are at home to Chester.