Saints Slam Shorey Speculation

Last updated : 15 July 2003 By Rob Cooper
Shorey
Shorey
Saints chairman Rupert Lowe has swiftly moved to deny rumours that suggest the South Coast side are set to move for Nicky Shorey should current left-back Wayne Bridge complete a move to Chelsea.

On Sunday Reading MAD reported that the St Mary's side were planning a £1 million bid for Shorey. When asked about the Shorey rumours Lowe admitted: "There is no truth in that at all."

However, the Saints chairman failed to deny speculation linking England full-back Bridge with a move to newly-affluent Chelsea. But with three years left to run on the superstars contract the Blues will have to pay over the odds if they are to get their man.

Roman Abramovich's mega-rich team have already reportedly had to bids, believed to be in the region of £5 million, turned down. However, reports indicate that they may come back with more money on the table.

Indeed, with Bridge himself imitating that he may be interested in the switch it is becoming hard to believe he will be wearing the red and white stripes of Southampton come August.

Should Bridge be on his way, it appears ever-more unlikely that Shorey will be targeted. Gordon Strachan has already brought in Norwich's Darren Kenton (aka 'King Kent *snigger snigger*) and Oldham's Fitz Hall this summer so it seems unlikely he would be looking to bring in a third Nationwide League defender in.