Newcastle target Obafemi Martins has announced that he is poised to complete his move to St James Park. The Inter Milan striker says a deal is close after the clubs reportedly agreed a £10.9 million fee for the player.
Although there has no official word from either club as yet, Martins said: "I'm close to moving to Newcastle. Eighty percent of the deal is completed."
The 21-year-old Nigerian international has become unsettled at the San Siro since the summer signings of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Hernan Crespo to strengthen the clubs forward line. And he cant wait to test himself in the English game.
He added: "Playing in the Premiership has been a long-term ambition and I am extremely delighted with the prospect of concluding that in the next couple of days.'.
Alan Smith last night made a welcome return to action for Manchester Uniteds reserves as he finally put his double leg break horror behind him. The England international came through a 66 minute appearance without any complications as the Red Devils completed a 7-2 victory over Preston at Deepdale.
It was exactly 184 days since Smith fractured his shin and broke his ankle as he went to block a John Arne Riise shot at Anfield during a Fifth Round FA Cup tie. The former Leeds striker declared himself happy with the outcome – despite failing to get on the scoresheet - and is looking to return to first-team action at some stage next month.
He said: "I have worked hard for that all through the summer. That is what my goal has been. Playing for the reserves is a step up from training and hopefully, in a few weeks time, I will have had some more reserve games and be able to make the step up to the first team.
"In the first half I felt okay, but I started to get a bit tired 15 minutes into the second half, which is why I came off. I just need a few matches under my belt, although I think I could have played all night and not scored. But my movement was okay and I just need to build up my strength a little bit."
Owen Hargreaves has been given a sharp rebuke by Bayern Munich boss Uli Hoeness after he spoke about an approach from Manchester United last week. The England midfielder has been told to keep his own counsel by the former German international as feelings over a potential move to Old Trafford remain high.
Hoeness said: "I would advise him to keep his mouth shut now or I will get really angry and that wont be good for him. I simply cant understand why he keeps going on about it after the two talks we have had.
"He will not be allowed to leave and he must learn to accept the decisions of his bosses. Its simply a question of respect.'
Damien Johnson has kissed and made up with Birmingham City after his public display of disaffection when he was substituted by Steve Bruce during the victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday.
The midfielder reacted angrily when his number was held up, tossing his captains armband into the air and then throwing his shirt on the floor in anger after mistakenly believing that ironic cheers directed at Bruce were, in fact, meant for him.
He said: "When the subs were read out, there was a huge cheer from the fans, which I took to mean they were glad I was being taken off. After four years service, that really hurt. However, Ive been told I misread the crowds reaction and if thats the case I am sorry and I hope the supporters can appreciate that.
"I give Birmingham City my complete dedication and will continue to do so. I hope my passion on the field can show everyone I mean what I say. I wholeheartedly apologise.'
