Motherwell manager Stuart McCall today revealed that he has not given up hope of bringing Gavin Gunning back to Fir Park.

The Steelmen gaffer has already made contact with Blackburn boss Steve Kean to find out what the Ewood Park outfit's plans are for the Republic of Ireland Under-21 internationalist.

And McCall is hoping to find out within the next 24 hours if Rovers can be persuaded to part with Gunning, who has now entered the final 12 months of his deal with the Premiership club.

McCall said: "Blackburn are in Austria right now and, with Gavin only having a year left on his current deal, I would hope to find out within the next 24 hours what their position regarding Gavin is.

"I have spoken to Gavin and he is keen to come back, and we just have to see if Blackburn will loan him again or want to retain him or, indeed, intend to go down another route."

Meanwhile, Well claimed an entertaining 3-2 win at Morton in their opening friendly, despite falling behind after former Hamilton stopper Andy Graham unleashed a fine volley past the impressive Lee Hollis.

But, with in-demand Jamie Murphy in particularly impressive form for Well, the visitors' equaliser arrived within minutes as the striker's stunning right-foot effort from 25 yards beat Colin Stewart all ends up.

Six minutes after the break Well took the lead when sub Jamie Pollock converted a fine Steven Saunders cross but, with Ton pushing for a second leveller, McCall's men had Hollis to thank for keeping them in front with a string of saves.

Allan Moore's side regained parity in 73 minutes when Andy Jackson slotted home past the Well No.1 from the edge of the box.

However, the winner duly arrived four minutes from time when another visiting sub, Steven Lawless, burst into the home box before sending a back-post delivery for Well youngster Gary Smith to head the winner.

Despite the late concession, Morton boss Moore was pleased with his team's efforts.

He said: "I thought we did really well and should have had a draw. We created some great opportunities where their keeper has done really well.

"I was delighted with the performance of Peter MacDonald, in particular, and it is great to have terms agreed with him, Archie Campbell and Darren McGeough.

"But we took a couple of knocks and although this was pleasing, it will be all about how we do against Ross County in our first competitive game that matters."

Meanwhile, Well ace Murphy continues to catch the eye and the £700,000-rated star is attracting interest from English Premier League sides Bolton and QPR.

Trotters manager Owen Coyle is familiar with the Scotland Under-21 star from his time north of the border.