Portadown striker Darren Murray hands in transfer request

Darren Murray's appearances were hampered by injury and suspension last season

Portadown striker Darren Murray has submitted a transfer request amid reports of interest in the player from fellow Irish Premiership clubs Cliftonville and Linfield.

Murray, 23, is understood to be keen on a move from the Shamrock Park club as he believes it would boost his chances of achieving full-time football.

Cliftonville is believed to be his preferred destination.

Portadown manager Ronnie McFall insists Murray is staying at the club.

"We received the e-mail request on Tuesday but Darren is under contract and not available to other clubs," McFall told the Portadown Times.

"We have not received any bids but Cliftonville did make us aware of interest in a deal.

"We have not heard anything from Linfield or any other club," he added.

"I am expecting Darren to report to pre-season training along with the rest of the squad."

The former Donegal Celtic player signed a two-year contract with the Ports midway through last season.

Cliftonville are on the lookout for a striker following the departure of their prolific marksman Joe Gormley to Peterborough.