Anthony Tohill's return would be a boost for Derry

Former Ireland international rules captain Anthony Tohill has played down reports that he is about to return to the Derry football squad.

The four-time All Star had knee surgery late last year and is understood to have been building up his fitness over the past two months.

However, Tohill said he had not decided if he would play senior county football again.

"I remain undecided about the future," said Tohill, a powerhouse in the Oak Leaf midfield.

Derry manager Mickey Moran said he had kept in touch with Tohill and would love him back.

"He has a lot of things to consider and I am certainly not rushing him," said Moran.

Derry's main priority this year is the Ulster Championship game against Tyrone on 18 May.

The county are on course to qualify for the closing stages of Division Two in the Allianz National Football League.

Manager Moran has introduced several new players to the squad this season but the return of 32-year-old Tohill would be a major boost for the team.

Paul McFlynn is now fit again after a period out because of injury while Johnny McBride is also likely to return to the panel shortly after reversing his decision to retire.