Ex-Magpie in the dark

Last updated : 24 December 2005 By Mo Sultan
Swindon boss Iffy Onuora wants to keep the 20-year-old until the end of the campaign, but the current loan deal expires on December 31.

McDermott explained the situation: "I was hoping to have spoken to Fulham by now but we keep missing each other.

"The manager (Chris Coleman) has been away but I'm hoping that by the weekend I will know my fate.

"It's nice to know that Iffy wants me to stay but until I know what my situation at Fulham is, I cannot make a decision.

"I'm signed to Fulham so my fate is in their hands. If I have to go back then that's what I have to do.

"But whether I stay or go I will still have the same commitment to Swindon over the next three games (Colchester, Chesterfield and Swansea).

"For your own peace of mind you like to know what is coming up in the months ahead, but I will still be totally committed on the pitch."

There is a possibility of a permanent deal at Swindon for McDermott, who added: "It has been a massive learning curve for me.

"I've learned more here than I did in 18 months in Fulham's reserves.

"My contract at Fulham runs out in the summer, so I need to speak to them and see what they think about the future.

"If Fulham were not going to give me a new deal I would definitely consider Swindon, but I do not want to cross that bridge until I get there."