Winger is latest on the radar

FITTING THE BILL?: Donal McDermott (left)

ATHLETIC are on the trail of Rochdale winger Donal McDermott.

The talented 27-year-old has been offered a new deal at Spotland but appears set for pastures new.

Chesterfield were interested in signing the ex-Bournemouth and Huddersfield man, but it is thought he may prefer to opt to remain in Sky Bet League One where Athletic manager John Sheridan is an admirer.

McDermott made 21 appearances for Rochdale this season, scoring once in a 3-0 home win against Port Vale.

OBSCURITY

The previous year, the Dubliner played 43 times under Hill, who brought the player back from relative obscurity after he had drifted into non-league with Salford City and Ramsbottom United following his release by Bournemouth.

McDermott would fit the bill as an attacking outlet down either flank, as Sheridan bids to re-shape his squad with fresh attacking options.

The Athletic manager, who is expecting to hear back from five players offered fresh terms, has confirmed he wants to pick up two midfielders as well as a new pair of strikers.

Brian Wilson, Paul Green, Tope Obadeyi, Chris Kettings and George Edmundson have all been given a deadline of today to decide whether or not to sign new contracts ahead of the 2017-18 season.

Meanwhile, Athletic right-back Ryan McLaughlin has been named in the Northern Ireland squad ahead of two upcoming fixtures.

Michael O'Neill's side host New Zealand in a friendly on Friday, June 2, before making the journey to Azerbaijan for a World Cup qualifier on Saturday, June 10.

McLaughlin, whose brother Conor is also included in the squad, took part in a national team training camp in Manchester last week.