Various outlets covering the Hamilton vs. Kilmarnock game in the SPL, reported that Nigel Clough was on hand to watch strike target Conor Sammon.

It seems Nigel made the trip to see Sammon for himself after having him watched last week during Killies clash with Dundee.

The Irishman plying his trade in Scotland scored in both matches and his goal against Hamilton yesterday makes it 18 for the season.

Various reports have suggested that the Rams made a verbal offer of £400,000 for the player without making an official bid. DCFC refuted that they had made an offer but I suppose a verbal offer does not count as an offer so maybe they have but haven't?

Confused? So am I!

Sammon looks to be a talent on the rise and his recent performances show why there has been interest from other Championship clubs. Having already turned down a move to Scunthorpe after a fee was agreed on; perhaps Nigel Clough was there to put his best sales pitch to the striker after the match.

It seems that Kilmarnock manager Mixu Paatelainen is prepared for the loss of Sammon:

“There are a few clubs interested in Conor, all from England, he has done a good job and he deserves a move, the chance to play at a higher level.”

“If that happens, good luck to him. If it doesn't happen, great. Hopefully if any club makes a move, they do it before Monday to give me a chance to replace him. I've got players in my mind who possibly might join us if Conor went."

Derby has brought plenty of attention to their target and if the deal goes awry they may only have themselves to blame as while they have waited, the player keeps scoring and other clubs are circling.

Sammon spoke to the media after the match but had little idea of what was happening:

"To be honest, I've no idea what's happening. I'm not sure if the clubs are talking between each other. I was just focusing on the game, that's all I was thinking about. I'll have to wait and see what happens."

"I'm in no rush to move on. I'm very happy at Kilmarnock and I've got a fantastic manager who is helping me progress every week."

Conor obviously said all of that before finding Nigel hiding in his locker.

Hopefully Clough was at the match to secure the signature in the same fashion his father would have. As there were no news of Nigel being thrown out of the change rooms he may have a more subtle style than his old man but from all reports the Rams gaffer can be very persuasive when he wants to be.

Let’s hope he was at his best last night and maybe when he returns he could try and use a little of it on GSE and their accountant.

Photo: Action Images

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