Dave Savage, Oxford United's Supporters' Player of the Year last season, looks like joining third division rivals Bristol Rovers.

The former Republic of Ireland midfielder, disappointed that he had been made a scapegoat by chairman Firoz Kassam for United's failure to reach the play-offs last season, has had talks with the Pirates.

I understand he has agreed verbally to sign for them when he returns from holiday next week.

Savage, 29, whose contract with Oxford expired last month, had been made a new offer by the U's, but it represents a big pay cut.

Reports suggest Bristol Rovers may give him a two-year contract.

If he does sign for them, he will link up with another former United player, Robert Quinn, who impresses boss Ray Graydon but has yet to win over the fans at the Memorial Stadium.

Losing Savage will be a blow to U's manager Ian Atkins, but it could give more first-team chances to young midfielder Dean Whitehead.

Atkins has also lost out in the chase for Colchester striker Scott McGleish.

The United boss was hoping to sign the former Leyton Orient and Barnet forward, who hit nine goals in the second division last season.

The 29-year-old has signed a new deal for Colchester.