McNab and fellow defender George Hummel were both offered the chance to join up with a top Moscow club during their pre-season training camp in Turkey.

This was confirmed by the Swallows managing director Leon Prins:

"George is flying to Turkey today (Monday), but Gary has declined the offer. In as much as the team will be weakened by his departure if he is successful, we wish him all the best."

Prins will no doubt be a relieved man that his inspirational captain will be remaining in the Birds nest, and although Hummel has been impressive this season, coach Gavin Hunt does have the option of moving Warren Lewis back into the centre of defence and bringing in Jermaine Christian at left-back if the Namibian does depart.

Swallows have already lost one player to a Russian club in recent times when pacy winger Japhet Zwane departed our shores to join up with FC Rostov last season.