DAVE Penney is facing the prospect of losing the services of on-loan Middlesbrough defender David Wheater for Darlington's crucial League Two run-in.

Under the terms of his 93-day emergency loan, Wheater will return to the Riverside after Darlington face Barnet on March 31.

The tall centre-back joined Darlington on January 1, since when he has been an ever-present at the heart of Penney's defence.

However, unless Quakers re-sign the 20-year-old for a second loan period, he will miss the remaining six games of Darlington's season.

Wheater has started in all ten games since make the short trip across the A66, playing an integral part in Darlington's nine-match unbeaten run.

And the youngster admits he would rather feature in Quakers' play-off push than return to reserve-team football at Middlesbrough.

The deadline for loan signings is March 22, although a club spokesperson last night confirmed that Wheater's current loan deal cannot be extended beyond March 31.

"If I had my choice then I would stay for the rest of the season, but unfortunately these things happen and I have to accept that," said Wheater.

"If Darlington get to the play-off final and I'm playing for Middlesbrough reserves I'll be fuming!"

Wheater has formed a good understanding alongside central defensive partner Ian Miller, another of Penney's emergency loan signings. Their performances have kept the likes of Darren Holloway and Patrick Collins out of the side.

"We've signed a lot of good players and it's beginning to show in our results," said the Middlesbrough-born defender.

"It's only a young team as well, especially at the back, but I think we're improving with every game we play together."

The defender believes his experience at the 96.6TFM Darlington Arena can only put him in good stead when he returns to Boro.

It was after a loan spell under Penney at Doncaster that Wheater went on to make five appearances for the Teessiders last season.

"If I want to play at a higher level I have to do well for myself when I'm out on loan," said Wheater.

"There's nothing better than playing regular first-team football and I'm grateful that Darlington have given me the opportunity."

The Quakers squad will fly down to Torquay tomorrow, with question marks hanging over the fitness of goalkeeper Lee Jones (groin) and Evan Horwood (ankle). The duo will undergo fitness tests ahead of Saturday's clash with the bottom-of-the-table Gulls.

Penney will also asses the fitness of Martin Smith, who is still suffering with a virus.