CONNOR Wood plans to stay in touch with Tranmere-bound James Vaughan for advice.

The City left back admitted to a “tinge of disappointment” at the leading scorer’s departure on loan to Prenton Park.

And he revealed the influence that the former captain has had on developing his game this season.

Wood said: “It’s down to the manager and the club but as a player, I looked up to Vaughany and saw him as a good professional.

“He has helped me a lot this season and I’ve got nothing but praise for him.

“Things happen in people’s careers and I’ve no comment on what the situation was. From my perspective, I always saw Vaughany in a positive light and wish him all the best.

“Obviously there will be a tinge of disappointment but it’s out of anyone’s control.

“I’ll still be in touch with him and be able to talk to him but for now I’ve got to focus on us as a team.”

Eoin Doyle’s expected permanent move to Swindon could be confirmed by the end of the day.

While Gary Bowyer had “nothing concrete” to say on that, he was happy for Vaughan to step back up to League One for the rest of the season.

The City boss said: “You always want players to be the best they can and strive to play as high as they can.

“It is a short career, so I’ll never have a problem with someone who wants to play higher.

“I’ve had many a player who has gone and done that and now we’ve had it with James.”

Bowyer was also asked about the report in the Telegraph & Argus that Will Grigg had turned down a loan move to Valley Parade.

He said: “I saw that speculation. Again, he’s a Sunderland player.

“It’s been clearly stated in the press that if he is leaving Sunderland to stay as high as he can and I understand that.”