British clubs in chase for Sligo's Ryan

SLIGO ROVERS' captain Richie Ryan could be on his way back to British football as two cross-channel clubs have already made bids for the talented midfielder.

Ryan, who played in the Premier League for Sunderland and also had spells with Boston United and Scunthorpe United, is out of contract with Sligo but his form last season, as Rovers finished second in the league table and also retained the FAI Cup, has caused a stir abroad.

Championship side Peterborough United have contacted Ryan about coming over to England for a trial next week, with Ryan due to link up with the Posh on Monday.

But now SPL outfit Dundee United have come in with an offer and Ryan is mulling over his options, with a move to Tannadice Park a possibility. United already have a strong Irish presence with Sean Dillon, Willo Flood, Jon Daly and Gavin Gunning - all Dubliners - in the first-team squad.

GRAHAM CUMMINS is waiting to hear back from Premier League side Wolves on whether they will offer him a contract or not.

The 23-year-old, who was top scorer in Division One last season as Cork City won the divisional title and earned promotion back to the Premier Division, has just completed a three-day trial with Wolves and manager Mick McCarthy told Cummins that he was impressed with what he had seen.

TOMMY DUNNE has given Cork City a major boost ahead of their return to top flight football next season by agreeing a new contract with the club.

"To be asked to stay with the club as we go into the Premier Division is something I really wanted and am really looking forward to," said Dunne.

GALWAY UNITED have begun the process of preparing for life after relegation as they have appointed John 'Jumbo' Brennan as their permanent manager.

MARIO BALLOTELLI has claimed he is not mad and does not miss playing in Serie A.

The temperamental Manchester City forward, 21, instead said he considered himself to be entertaining and ready to take on responsibility.

"I'm not mad as some people say, although sometimes I'm entertaining," he said. "I'm ready to take on responsibility, even if people think I'm not.

"They seem to talk more about my private life than about what I do on the pitch," he added.

Latest NewsMore