Torquay boss Martin Ling expects Eunan O'Kane interest

O'Kane has scored 13 goals since joining Torquay in January 2010

Torquay boss Martin Ling believes the form of midfielder Eunan O'Kane will attract interest from rival clubs.

The 21-year-old Northern Ireland under-21 international has scored four goals this season, including two in the 3-1 Devon derby win over Plymouth Argyle.

"People will take note, he's got a few goals now, he's 21 - it's obvious that he would court attention," Ling said.

O'Kane signed an extension to his contract in September to stay at Plainmoor until 2014.

"He's a player that I rate highly, that's the reason he was the first person we got sorted out on a contract," Ling told BBC Radio Devon.

"It wasn't the fact the people were knocking my door down, but I'm sure if he continues in the vein that he's been playing this season, there will be interested parties."

Asked whether he had heard of any potential offers for O'Kane ahead of next month's transfer window, he said: "We haven't had any and we don't want any."

O'Kane joined Torquay from Northern Irish side Coleraine after coming through the youth ranks at Premier League Everton.

Earlier this year, O'Kane switched his international allegiance to the Republic of Ireland.