McIlroy gets go-ahead on Villa pair

Stockport boss Sammy McIlroy has been given the go-ahead to try and sign Aston Villa pair Boaz Myhill and Danny Jackman on a permanent basis.

Goalkeeper Myhill and defender Jackman have been attracting interest from several clubs with their performances for the Hatters but McIlroy is set to get the cash to keep them at Edgeley Park.

Chief executive Niels de Vos told the club's official website: "We are aware that other clubs are looking at Boaz and Danny so Brian Kennedy has authorised Sammy to offer Villa their asking price for both players."

McIlroy added: "The players have said they are happy at Edgeley Park so, hopefully, both will now agree to join us permanently."