Paddy McCourt is being tipped to be handed a player-coach role at Finn Harps for the 2018 season.
The Derryman, who signed for Harps on the eve of the 2017 campaign, proved a huge hit among the Finn Park faithful.
McCourt had his injury trouble over the term, but still managed 28 appearances (starting 23 of those games), scoring two goals.
The Northern Ireland international will be 34 by the time the new season comes around in February, but it is believed that he will stay in Ballybofey despite Harps’ relegation to the First Division.
McCourt has recently launched an elite football academy alongside former Harps player and assistant manager Marty McCann in Derry.
Sources close to McCourt, A UEFA ‘A’ Licence holder, have suggested that his role at Harps will be extended in 2018 to include a place among the club’s coaching staff.
Last night, Harps confirmed the re-appointment of Ollie Horgan as manager for another two years, with the option of a third year added on.
This Friday night, McCourt will be a guest at Harps’ underage presentation event in the Clanree Hotel.