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Derry City boss Stephen Kenny hopes James McClean's expected departure from the Brandywell won't happen until the end of the League of Ireland season.

Peterborough United have made a fresh bid for the in-form winger after Derry chairman Philip O'Doherty met the club's director of football Barry Fry.

"A move in October would be preferable for us," said Derry boss Kenny.

Derry will be without injured Kevin Deery's for Friday's Airtricity League clash in Bray (1945 BST).

Deery has a calf injury while the manager also has fitness doubts over Ruaidhri Higgins and Barry Molloy.

McClean is fit for the Candystripes after starring in last Friday's 1-0 win over then leaders Shamrock Rovers and Kenny is hoping to have the winger available for the remainder of the season.

"To lose our best player would be a massive blow," said the Derry boss.

"It would hinder us in a major way so the club has to make a decision based on that.

"We don't want to stand in James' way. He's an outstanding player, a brillliant person, has a tremendous attitude and deserves an opportunity.

"From my point of view, that would be preferable in October rather than August.

"I wouldn't feel his value would depreciate between August and October."

Derry go into Friday's game two points behind new leaders Sligo Rovers after the Candystripes' impressive win over Shamrock Rovers.

"I'm delighted with our form," added Kenny.

"We had a thoroughly deserved victory over Shamrock Rovers and we must build on that in Bray.

"The players have been terrific this season.

"Bray are an unpredictable side. They've beaten Shamrock Rovers twice this season so you have to respect that."