Jackett says Doyle now likely to remain at Wolves

Republic of Ireland international striker Kevin Doyle is gearing up to spend the season in League One with Wolves, according to manager Kenny Jackett.

With the closure of the transfer window looming on September 2, Jackett claims there has been no firm interest in Doyle and that staying at Molineux is now a distinct possibility.

Celtic remain keen on a deal but Wolves’ £2 million asking price and Doyle’s personal terms are scaring off most clubs.

Jackett said: “He is an experienced professional and I am sure he will know there is a possibility of him staying at Wolves.

“It all depends on who wants to come and take him. It has been very quiet. Kevin is an experienced professional and I am sure that he will know what his options are and what the possibilities are.”

Doyle has started the last two games and Jackett added: “Kevin has brought an experience to our front line that we have needed.

“If you are looking at our options in the forward position they need an experienced pro there to help out and links things.”

Meanwhile, Stephen Ward hopes a season-long loan at Brighton & Hove Albion will help to return him to the Republic of Ireland fold.

Ward has agreed to spend the 2013/14 campaign with the Seagulls after suffering two forgettable years at Wolves — which have delivered successive relegations and dropped the Molineux outfit into League One.

His domestic struggles have impacted on his international ambitions, with nine months having passed since he last played for Ireland.

Ward remains in Giovanni Trapattoni’s thoughts, but needs to convince the Ireland coach that he is deserving of a recall.

A spell at Brighton is intended to put him back in contention, and the versatile 28-year-old is determined to make the most of the opportunity presented to him at the Amex Stadium.

Ward said: “I spoke to the manager (Trapattoni) and explained the situation at Wolves and he wanted me to maybe move on and freshen myself up, because it’s been sort of doom and gloom there for the last two years.

“Psychologically it can be hard for the likes of myself and Kevin Doyle, coming from that, so I see this as a move in the right direction and hopefully my career can get back on track with a good club.

“When it was mentioned to me I was really excited about coming here, because I have admired the way they play, especially playing against them last year. They play the type of football any player wants to play.

“It’s an exciting challenge, a club that is going in the right direction, so I am delighted to be here and hopefully I can make a good impact and we can have a good season.”