Notts County

Image source, EFL

A new initiative highlighting the work of football club charities has been launched by the English Football League (EFL).

'Scan to Smile' will be rolled out in stadiums across the EFL from Friday until the end of January, with supporters invited to scan QR codes on posters displayed around grounds.

Each scan will unlock a short, uplifting story from a person whose life has been positively impacted by the support of their local club charity.

The subjects tackled include mental health support, combating loneliness, improving physical wellbeing, employability and confidence.

The EFL said it hoped the initiative would use "the reach and influence of football to offer fans a moment of positivity on matchday".

Trevor Birch, chief executive at the EFL, said: "Behind every club are people whose lives have been positively changed through the work and dedication of their local EFL club charity.

"This initiative gives supporters the chance to see that impact first-hand and reminds us that football truly is a force for good."

Image source, Kilmarnock FC

Neil McCann has made his first Kilmarnock signing, adding former Aberdeen goalkeeper Kelle Roos on loan from Notts County for the rest of the season.

The 33-year-old Dutchman has made 26 appearances for County since joining the English League Two club last summer.

Roos had a two-year spell at Aberdeen from 2022 and also counts Derby County and Italians Triestina among his former clubs.

He bolsters Kilmarnock's goalkeeping options as Max Stryjek continues his recovery from heart surgery.

The club have confirmed Tobi Oluwayemi has now returned to Celtic following his emergency loan spell. The 22-year-old goalkeeper departs having made 12 appearances.

"Tobi's professionalism, attitude and commitment were evident throughout his spell, and his contribution was greatly appreciated by players, staff, and supporters," said Killie.

Simon Stone
Manchester United reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Manchester United are cutting short two of their young players' loan stints and are ruminating over a third.

Defender Sonny Aljofree has already come back from League Two Notts County, while England youth goalkeeper Elyh Harrison will also leave Shrewsbury.

Aljofree made 11 appearances, including 10 starts for Notts County at the start of the season but the 21-year-old has not featured since the end of September.

Harrison started the campaign as first choice at Shrewsbury, making seven appearances, but also lost his place in September.

The 19-year-old was on the bench for Monday's defeat at Grimsby and United's intention is to bring him back to the club.

Discussions are continuing over the short-term plan for 20-year-old defender Habeeb Ogunneye, who has made 21 appearances in all competitions for League Two strugglers Newport but has not featured since the FA Cup defeat at non-league Boreham Wood on 7 December.