Shamrock Rovers have failed in an attempt to sign Sheffield Wednesday's Paul Corry on loan but they haven't given up hope of attracting his team-mate Stephen McPhail back to Ireland on a permanent basis.

Hoops boss Trevor Croly is understood to have approached ex-UCD midfielder Corry to ascertain his interest in coming home. However, the player's prospects at Wednesday have improved since the departure of Dave Jones -- caretaker boss Stuart Gray has included him on the bench in recent weeks -- and he is keen to stay in England.

McPhail's contract expires this month and although Wednesday have held discussions about extending his deal, the 34-year-old is believed to be keen to move home to Ireland as his family are still based in Skerries.

Croly is close to appointing the experienced John Gill as his No 2. Colin Hawkins, who held the post last term, will take charge of Rovers' First Division side this year.

Meanwhile, Bohemians are on the verge of announcing a sponsorship deal that