FORMER Shakers' favourite Sammy McIlroy can make himself even more popular with the Gigg Lane fans this summer.

All the Stockport County manager has to do is settle terms with Dave Challinor and clear the way for the defender's move to Gigg Lane!

The influential Challinor is out of favour with the Cheshire side but still has 12 months of his contract to run.

That's why he jumped at the chance to join the Gigg Lane club when asked to do so back in January.

His arrival coincided with a miraculous change in fortune for the Shakers, and there's no doubt he is going to be missed in the closing games of the campaign, after returning to Edgeley Park this week.

Bury boss Graham Barrow has made no secret of the fact that the 29-year-old is top of his list of acquisitions for next season, indeed he narrowly failed to permanently sign him on transfer deadline day.

And with Challinor himself, seemingly happy to join up with the Shakers, all eyes will be on any negotiations in the offices on Hardcastle Road.

Speaking after his final game - the 2-1 Good Friday victory over Torquay - Challinor said: "It's very pleasing to end my time here on a winning note.

"The result should take away any niggling doubts about the club being involved in a relegation fight.

"Hopefully the lads can push on now, enjoy the season and plan for next year."

Regarding any permanent close-season move to Gigg Lane, the likeable Chester-born stopper added: "I just have to see what happens in the summer now.

"It nearly happened on deadline day, so if it can be picked up again then so be it.

"I have a month of the season to try and get into Stockport's side but we'll have to wait and see.

"There is the nucleus of a good side here, although things are a bit thin on the ground, but a few more players would help things a lot."

Barrow has been fulsome in his praise for Challinor and rates him as probably his best signing.

"Dave's done everything I've wanted and more," he declared.

"I think there was disappointment on his behalf and ours that we couldn't sign him up a few weeks ago, but we live in hope.

"Players like him are diamonds for a manager, it's not just his playing ability but everything else he offers to the club.

"Judging from the chats I've had with him he'd be more than happy to stay with us but obviously Sammy (McIlroy) comes into the equation.

"It seems they would be prepared for him to go but it has to be right for Dave too."