Celtic deny Lees link
YEP 8/1/13
By Leon Wobschall
Scottish giants Celtic have dismissed reports suggesting they are lining up a move for Leeds United defender Tom Lees.
The Hoops were linked with a move for the 22-year-old yesterday, with the Glasgow outfit said to be leading the chase for the highly-rated stopper – with Aston Villa, QPR, Wigan Athletic and Cardiff City also reportedly monitoring the situation.
But according to sources north of the border, Celtic – who are close to finalising a move for Israel defender Rami Gershon – have no plans to make a move for Lees.
United are not likely to welcome any serious moves from any clubs regarding Lees, rated highly by boss Neil Warnock, who has likened him in terms of potential to England and Everton defender Phil Jagielka, who blossomed under his guidance at Sheffield United a decade ago.
Lees only signed a long-term deal with United, contracting him with the club until 2016, at the end of May and he remains very much a part of Warnock’s plans at Elland Road.
United’s link with long-term target Clint Hill have resurfaced, although it is unlikely that Queens Park Rangers will do any business this month - with the summer a more likely time.
With Ryan Nelsen tipped to move to America and a player-coaching role at DC United, Rangers boss Harry Redknapp is wary of being short of central defensive cover, with skipper Hill having also been a regular in his plans – while being massively popular with R’s supporters.
By Leon Wobschall
Scottish giants Celtic have dismissed reports suggesting they are lining up a move for Leeds United defender Tom Lees.
The Hoops were linked with a move for the 22-year-old yesterday, with the Glasgow outfit said to be leading the chase for the highly-rated stopper – with Aston Villa, QPR, Wigan Athletic and Cardiff City also reportedly monitoring the situation.
But according to sources north of the border, Celtic – who are close to finalising a move for Israel defender Rami Gershon – have no plans to make a move for Lees.
United are not likely to welcome any serious moves from any clubs regarding Lees, rated highly by boss Neil Warnock, who has likened him in terms of potential to England and Everton defender Phil Jagielka, who blossomed under his guidance at Sheffield United a decade ago.
Lees only signed a long-term deal with United, contracting him with the club until 2016, at the end of May and he remains very much a part of Warnock’s plans at Elland Road.
United’s link with long-term target Clint Hill have resurfaced, although it is unlikely that Queens Park Rangers will do any business this month - with the summer a more likely time.
With Ryan Nelsen tipped to move to America and a player-coaching role at DC United, Rangers boss Harry Redknapp is wary of being short of central defensive cover, with skipper Hill having also been a regular in his plans – while being massively popular with R’s supporters.