City have ruled out a move for Thomas Butler.

The former Irish international winger was the player that manager Colin Todd had referred to as a "diamond that needs brushing up".

But Todd has since knocked that on the head - and insists that he could cope without bringing in another left-sided midfielder.

City have missed out on Bobby Petta and Stephen Hunt, and Todd today suggested that he might be happy to make do with the players available in the squad.

"We won't be doing anything with Butler," he said.

"And I'm not too concerned about that position because we've still got the likes of Emanuel, Morrison, Muirhead and Bridge-Wilkinson who can play there."

But City will be able to unveil the identity of their new centre half on Monday. Details had to be kept quiet while the deal was finalised with his former club.

Butler played the final 11 games last season with Hartlepool, including the play-off final defeat to Sheffield Wednes-day. But he was taken off injured after half-an-hour.

The 24-year-old, who has two caps for the Republic of Ireland, has had a chequered past - and threatened to quit the game at one stage during his time with Sunderland.

He headed for Scotland to join Dunfermline but was released earlier this year and spent three months out of the picture before arriving at Victoria Park.

Hartlepool are keen to get him on a new deal but could still face competition from Bournemouth for his signature.

Meanwhile, City fans are welcome to bring down the curtain on Wayne Jacobs' testimonial year with a dinner dance at Valley Parade next Saturday.

The event takes place in the Sunwin Stand banqueting suite and starts at 7pm for 7.30pm. Tickets cost £25 each or £250 for a table of ten.

They can be booked from Anita Smith on 07880-526340 or by sending a cheque with your name and address to: 111 Calder House, Navigation Walk, Victoria Quays, Leeds, LS10 1JJ.

l Striker Michael Symes has joined Macclesfield on a six-month loan.