Watson on Morecambe trial as Taggart out for season

If the 25-year-old centre-back impresses former Northern Ireland boss Sammy McIlroy, he could secure a cross-channel move.

Watson is out of contract at the Showgrounds at the end of the season but has been offered a new deal which would include a benefit season next year, when he completes 10 years at the club, having made his first team debut at the age of 16.

Another United player on the verge of a cross-channel move is full-back Michael Smith, who again impressed during a second trial at Scottish Premier League side Kilmarnock last week.

Times Sport understands that former Sky Blues boss Kenny Shiels will offer Smith a contract if he secures the Killie manager’s job on a permanent basis.

United boss Roy Walker remains philosophical about Lee Colligan’s future, with the full-back reported to be considering spending a year in Australia.

“We have offered Lee a new contract, we have sent it out to him in writing but if he wants to go to Australia, that’s what he will do.”

Meanwhile, Walker will have to plan for United’s final three games of the season without midfielder Gavin Taggart, who broke his wrist in Saturday’s 3-3 draw at Donegal Celtic.

“He went up to head the ball and sustained the injury in the way he twisted as he fell.

“We need to play our strongest team possible in our remaining games and we will be looking for three strong home performances with wins attached to them.”

The first of those is at home to Newry City this Saturday where a Ballymena win could relegate the border club.

Balymena will be without skipper Gary Haveron who was red-carded in Saturday’s game but will welcome back Michael Smith following a ban.

The United club shop is having a half price sale at the remaining three home matches.

This will include away shirts and all Umbro leisurewear, with the exception of Bench Coats.