Martin Russell, the UCD manager, is also in the frame to fill the vacancy,

Colin Hawkins has emerged as a leading contender to manage the soon-to-be-formed Shamrock Rovers 'B' team, who will ply their trade in the League of Ireland's First Division next season.

The former Irish U-21 international was a member of Stephen Kenny's back-room team before earning a promotion to become Trevor Croly's assistant manager last December.

Now the added responsibility of managing this newly created side will be added to his job spec. Martin Russell, the UCD manager, is also in the frame to fill the vacancy, although Hawkins is the strong favourite.

The Tallaght-based club are also favourites to add Daryl Horgan and Danny Ventre to their ranks. Horgan, the Cork City forward, is out of contract, as is Sligo utility-man Ventre.

While they are on the way into Rovers, Derek Foran is on the way out, with Dundalk close to capturing his signature. James Chambers, their powerful midfielder, also appears to be on the verge of leaving, with former club St Pat's interested in renewing acquaintances.

Billy Dennehy has returned to Cork City after four seasons with Shamrock Rovers, while Cork have also re-signed his brother Darren.

In other news, Tommy Dunne has been appointed as manager of the newly formed club Galway FC. Dunne, sacked by Cork City midway through last season, was one of two men offered jobs yesterday, as Finn Harps named Ollie Horgan as successor to Peter Hutton.

Elsewhere, Irish international striker Paddy Madden seems certain to be leaving Yeovil Town in January after falling out of favour with the club's management. Sheffield United and Rotherham have both expressed interest in his capturing the former Bohemians player, who scored 24 goals last season, but has failed to register one this term.

Meanwhile, the FAI president Paddy McCaul has paid tribute to the late Jackie Morley, who passed away yesterday. The former Cork Hibernians and Waterford United player won four League of Ireland championships with Waterford United and played in four FAI Cup finals for his two clubs.

"Jackie made a great contribution to Irish football during his career. Our thoughts and prayers at this time are with his family and friends," said McCaul.

Irish Independent