Hibs eye Swede

HIBERNIAN manager Mixu Paatelainen could be poised to make a move for Swedish midfielder Martin Mutumba after he played in yesterday's reserve meeting against Aberdeen. The 22-year-old featured as a trialist in the 3-1 loss at Glebe Park in front of Paatelainen, who also ran the rule over released Gretna defender Martin Canning, 26.

Mutumba is well known to the Easter Road manager having played for FC International Turku, the team who share their home ground with Paatelainen's former club TPS in Finland. Despite January's transfer window slamming shut, the player is a free agent and could sign at any time.

Brown loan deal

STENHOUSEMUIR have taken Ally Brown back from Hibs on loan until the end of the season. The goalkeeper had been on loan to the Third Division club, but returned when the transfer window opened.

Ferguson keen

STRANRAER caretaker manager Derek Ferguson is interested in taking over on a permanent basis following the departure of Gerry Britton to Partick Thistle. Ferguson said: "I have been asked many times this week if I am interested in the position. The answer is yes."

McEveley boost

SCOTLAND defender Jay McEveley is set for a shock return to action to help Derby County's relegation bid. The left-back was expected to be ruled out for the season after sustaining a knee injury last month, but is now due to be back in three weeks.

Manager Paul Jewell said: "Jay has made terrific progress. We thought he was going to be out for the rest of the season. With a bit of luck and hard work he may be available for the Wigan game on 23 February."

Clarke fears

SUNDERLAND defender Clive Clarke has left the Premier League club by mutual consent over fears about his health. The 28-year-old suffered a heart attack while on loan at Leicester in August, collapsing in the dressing room at half-time in the Foxes' Carling Cup clash with Nottingham Forest.

Zogbia on way

CHARLES N'Zogbia could be set to leave Newcastle at the end of the season, manager Kevin Keegan revealed. The 21-year-old signed a new five-year deal in September but is unhappy at St James' Park.