Hamann deal off?

[Rashid]

Campo deal derails Hamann move

By Gordon Sharrock

Bolton Evening News

 

BOLTON Wanderers have stalled in pursuit of Liverpool midfielder, Dietmar Hamann, after securing the services of Ivan Campo for the next two seasons.

 

The former Real Madrid ace signed a new contract yesterday, ending months of speculation over his future and rubbishing claims that he was set to return to Spain.

 

It is a move that could prompt Sam Allardyce to finally draw a line under the Hamann saga, knowing he can rely on Campo in the holding midfield role he plays so well.

 

The Wanderers boss has made no comment on the Hamann issue, but privately has become increasingly irritated by the former German international's reluctance to close the deal that was agreed in principle a month ago and commit himself to the Whites.

 

However, negotiations with Campo were not entirely hitch-free and Allardyce felt the need to issue a public warning to the 32-year-old Spaniard last month that he needed to be realistic in his financial demands.

 

But, having released Jay Jay Okocha and with Hide Nakata returning to Fiorentina after completing his season-long loan, he was determined not to lose a third top class midfield man. In fact Wanderers showed their determination to bring a successful end to the Campo talks when secretary, Simon Marland, flew to Mallorca to complete the formalities yesterday.

 

The immensely popular Campo, who joined Wanderers on loan from from Real Madrid in August 2002 and made the switch permanent the following summer, has made more than 100 appearances for Wanderers in four seasons, a figure that would have been considerably higher but for some bad luck with injuries.

 

He started only 10 games last season, spending two spells on the sidelines with metatarsal injuries, but he made an impressive start and had a good finish to remind the Reebok fans who have taken him to their hearts, that he still had much to offer in the Premiership. Allardyce was delighted to strike the Campo deal. "It's great to have him on board for another two years," the manager said. "The only times he has struggled were when he first came and last year, when he was unfortunate with his two metatarsal breaks. "But that's not going to cause him any more problems. He doesn't have to run around like a Gary Speed to have an effect on a game. He's very clever and a major influence when he's on song."

[snez1]

Hope so.

[sh#t waffle]

Hope so.

Me too. If he does leave us, at least make it to a club worthy of his services. Preferably abroad as well..

[Kurt]

Well, Bolton threated to take him to court if he did`nt sign, so if Bolton pull out of the deal i hope he sue them for everything their worth!

[Dan Vito Corleone]

Hope so.

 

My feelings to a tee.