PRESTON midfielder Steve Robinson has had a transfer request accepted by the Deepdale board.

The Northern Ireland star has struggled to make an impact at North End since his move from Bournemouth for £375,000 in June 2000.

He has been plagued by injuries and the form of Sean Gregan and Mark Rankine who have kept him out of the side this season.

Manager David Moyes said: "Steve has been unhappy at not being involved in the first team and has given me a transfer request which after speaking to the board we have decided to accept.

"It has been difficult for Steve, because since he has come to the club the form of Sean Gregan and Mark Rankine has been good.

"And also with the emergence of Michael Keane it has made it difficult for Steve to break through into the team in the middle of the park where he prefers to play.

"So we'll do everything we can to help Steve with him transfer request."