Bermuda Hogges duo Stephen Astwood and Damon Ming have been lined up for loan moves to an English professional club this winter ¿ with Stevenage Borough believed to be interested.

The Hogges' hierarchy, consisting of Kyle Lightbourne, Shaun Goater and Paul Scope, are trying to arrange loan deals for their two 'franchise players' and have strong contacts with a number of English clubs.

It is believed Stevenage Borough, who play in the Blue Square Premier, formerly the Conference, is a possible destination for the pair who both have experience in the muck and nettles of the English lower leagues.

Should either, or both, be offered a full-time contract they would be allowed to make the move permanent with the Hogges publicly stating they would not stand in their way.

If any loan deals emerge to simply be an exercise in keeping the two players fit and active during the off-season, then they will return to the Hogges for pre-season training in February.

Hogges president Shaun Goater believes a stint in England this winter would prove a footballing education for Astwood and Ming, as they look to build on their impressive first seasons in franchise football.

"Both players impressed in the USL-D2 and it's always been the aim to have our franchise players playing overseas when our campaign closes," said the former Manchester City, Bristol City and Rotherham United striker.

"It would be absolutely tremendous if either player were to be offered anything permanent. But at the very least, time spent training at an English club would expose them to a professional environment and a higher level of football.

"It's all part of their development as players and it's also important they both stay fit and active during the off-season - it would be an ideal arrangement."

Astwood, who turned out for Somerset Trojans last season, was recently named the USL-D2 rookie of the year and selected for the USL-D2 All League Team. He just missed out on a contract with Preston North End in 2001, then managed by Everton boss David Moyes, when a work permit fell through.

Ming, who was also nominated for rookie of the year, played non-league football with Northwood before joining the Hogges. The 28-year-old has had stints at League Two Barnet as well as Maidenhead United, Aylesbury United and Hayes. Stevenage Borough are currently second in the Blue Square Premier, the division below League Two, and are managed by Mark Stimson, who played for Newcastle United and Portsmouth.

Last month it emerged Sammy DeGraff could also have made his final appearance for the Hogges with the midfielder contemplating a return to Brazil to try and carve out a career as a professional footballer.

The 26-year-old spent July on trial at FIFA Club World Club Champions Sport Club Internacional and, despite not winning a contract, he has been offered an opportunity to spend a year in Brazil as a trialist pursuing his dream.