Liam Boyce gets added time to impress at Kilmarnock

Liam Boyce in action for Northern Ireland against Wales

Northern Ireland's Liam Boyce is to be given more time to earn a contract with Scottish Premier side Kilmarnock.

The former Cliftonville striker is looking for new employers after being released by German club Werder Bremen.

He was initially handed two weeks to impress at the Ayrshire club but manager Kenny Shiels wants longer to assess his fellow Northern Irishman.

"He played in a practice game but we need more time. His match sharpness needs to be improved," said Shiels.

"It is between windows and, maybe if it had been January and he had become available, we would not have had as long with him.

"It is good timing for us as it means he can spend more time with us to help us make our decision."

Shiels believed Boyce would be keen on the switch to Kilmarnock.

He added: "He likes the club, he likes the people and he feels there is a good group of lads here. He feels comfortable in this environment."