Signed on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers for the season, the creative Dublin-born playmaker has made a good impression and extended his deal for a second month.

Restricted to reserve appearances at the Division One club, his manager Dave Jones wanted Melligan to gain first-team experience.

He played eight league games for Bournemouth when they were relegated from Division Two last season.

Was recalled by Wolverhampton Wanderers briefly this season due to injury and suspension problems in their midfield and made two substitute appearances against Coventry and Nottingham Forest.

And the Dubliner was called up for his first Republic of Ireland U-21s cap in February in Scotland.

League appearances: Bournemouth (2001/02) 8.

This season: 30 games, 1 substitute appearance, 11 goals, 3 yellow cards.

Status: First-choice midfield.

Average Shuttle rating: 7.1 (6 star man awards)