The club has given permission for striker Mike Grella to train with New York Cosmos.

The 24-year-old marksman returned to the USA last week for a spell with the historic Cosmos side that will also allow him to play in any friendly matches organised by the club.

Cosmos were known throughout the world in the late 1970s, early 1980s for pioneering the sport in America and they attracted a host of top class names including the likes of Pele and Franz Beckebauer. They are currently hoping to take up a place in the MSL.

United boss Simon Grayson has indicated Mike is free to pursue a career elsewhere and, while there is interest from a number of English clubs, he has headed back to the USA during the close season where he will train and play with the Cosmos.

Since joining United in 2008, Mike has scored five goals in 42 appearances, 33 of those coming from the substitutes bench.

He also had loan spells with Carlisle United and Swindon Town last season.