Boss Jim Magilton says former trialist Ben Thatcher will decide whether to join the Blues by Tuesday at the latest. Thatcher impressed on the pre-season tour of Belfast and was offered a contract, but subsequently joined Wolves and then West Ham on trial.

Magilton told the club site: "We offered Ben a deal and we are hoping for an answer today or tomorrow.

"He is weighing up options and it's his right to explore the other possibilities he has.

"If it doesn't happen then we move on, but he is a player that I feel could be a useful addition to the squad."

West Ham boss Alan Curbishley is also considering offering the former Spurs, Charlton, Millwall and Manchester City man a contract, although Thatcher has been booed by Hammers fans during his trial, something which surprises Curbishley: "I didn't quite understand it.

"I don't think George [McCartney] will be too far away so we're looking for some experienced cover and we took the opportunity to give Ben half a game.

"Perhaps the fans don't understand what the situation is. I'll have to think about it.”

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