Dennis Irwin could be tempted away from Old Trafford by Steve McLaren, who is expected to replace Bryan Robson and Terry Venables at Middlesbrough next month. The versatile Manchester United defender has been holding out on a new contract with the Premiership champions, but with first team options limited, he may look elsewhere as he seeks to prolong his glittering career.
McLaren, currently assistant to Alex Ferguson at United, should be unveiled as the new Riverside supremo next month and it is believed that Irwin is likely to be offered a position as player/coach. The former Derby coach sees Irwin's vast experience and respect within the game as the perfect material to move into coaching, and the Corkman has hinted in the past that his long-term future lies in management.
Irwin is available on a free transfer, and with more than £30million to spend, Middlesbrough should have no trouble matching his wage demands. It has also emerged that Irwin's former Republic of Ireland team-mate, Rory Delap, will be a target for McLaren, who worked with him during his Derby days.
Filed by Shane Murray
