The former Celtic youngster will spend the next fortnight trying to convince the Gosford outfit that he would be a worthy addition to the squad but it isn't just Lawrie McKinna who is keeping a close watch on his progress.  

McGlinchey may have played his club football in Scotland and also represented the Scots at youth level but the 22-year-old was born in Wellington.

Under recently amended FIFA rules, it means he could yet play for Ricki Herbert's All Whites.   Previously, players who had represented one country at youth level had to make the choice to change nationality by the age of 21. That has now changed with the age restriction removed.  

The New Zealand and Wellington Phoenix boss is well aware of McGlinchey's orgins and will seek to persuade him to join the New Zealand camp.

Herbert is also keen to bring in New Zealand-born Plymouth Argyle striker Rory Fallon.   Herbert told The Dominion Post: "I will definitely talk to those players. If they want to come on board, then great. If not, then we can move forward with what we've got.

"Who knows who will come out of the rule change but definitely those two at this stage."

The Mariners take on Gold Coast United this weekend while Wellington are preparing for their two-match tour of China.