ASHLEY Barnes is considering a loan move to Devon neighbours, Torquay United.

The Gulls have asked to borrow the robust young striker as they look to secure their League Two status.

Argyle Head Coach Paul Mariner is planning to discuss the move with Ashley and give the striker an opportunity to make his own choice.

"I've got to speak to Ashley," said Mariner. "There is a possibility [he will go out on loan]. Ashley's fully in the loop and we'll put the ball in his court. If he wants to go, he can go. If he doesn't, that's fine.

"There was another team but, because of the staff's selfish reasons, it's [Torquay] close at hand. He can come in one day a week, so we can monitor him really well.

"We also know [Torquay manager] Paul [Buckle] very well. From our viewpoint, it is better for a young player to be under our close attention.

"He needs to get in the battle-zone. It might be best for his career. He's got a lot of attributes that you want. He is mobile and aggressive, but, like all young players, he needs to work on his awareness and his first touch - you could say that about every player walking.

"He is at a stage where it is probably a good idea for him to go out and hopefully be a star down there. He's played in our first-team and scored this season, so he's coming along."