Derry City's Pat McCourt has won the eircom / Soccer Writers Association of Ireland Player of the Month award for May.

The in-form midfielder still harbours ambitions of representing Northern Ireland once more but is not exactly bullish about the prospects of manager Lawrie Sanchez picking up the phone any time soon.

At one time courted by the Republic of Ireland, he was eventually swayed by the enthusiasm former Northern Ireland manager Sammy McIllroy showed in him as a youngster and, subsequently, made his senior debut when playing the last 13 minutes of the 5-0 friendly defeat at home to Spain four years ago.

Since then, though, the now 22-year-old has endured an injury-plagued career and although featuring regularly for the North's under-21 side, he has yet to force his way back into the senior mix despite eye-catching spells down south with both Shamrock Rovers and his current employers following his move from Rochdale.

"I'm not too bothered by that to be honest," says McCourt who last night reconfirmed his eligibility for the North following Fifa's recent ruling that players representing the country must produce a British passport for match officials if they wish to line out for the team.

"I just go out each week, for each game and try do my best for Derry City. If something comes from that then of course it's all the more welcome."

Sanchez has tended to look to the English and Scottish leagues when choosing his squads but the recent inclusion of Linfield striker Peter Thompson has given players like McCourt hope for the future.

"I'm too old now for the under-21s. Therefore if I am going to get call up now, it will have to be for the full squad so I'll see if it comes."

McCourt is, according to Sanchez, monitored regularly but the reality is league players here are not being strongly considered. Perhaps behind it all, McCourt is resigned to this.

"If (Sanchez) wants to come and have a look at me himself, he's more than welcome but at the end of the day there's nothing I can do about that."