Andy Johnson In, Sammy Lee Out?
Posted by Ratbert in Bolton, Premiership | 19 May 2006
The last few days have seen the Bolton Wanderers rumour factory (mill is such a cliché) crank into overdrive. Whilst it’s easy to take anything you read in the tabloids with a pinch of salt, some of the noises from the Reebok suggest something is happening behind the boardroom doors.
First up, Andy Johnson. He has his critics, of course. One season in the Premiership; yes, he scored plenty goals, but most of them were from penalties (and how many of those do Bolton get?). And having been in the Championship the last couple of seasons, well… even Henrik Pedersen could score against Crewe or Brighton. So he’s not worth £7m. Especially with Borgetti and his wood-warmed arse still about.
Well, I know, living in the West Midlands, that Johnson has always been highly rated, even if he wasn’t that well utilised at Birmingham City. As a quick, pacy prospect the blue-nosed faithful were sad to see him go. And pace, youth and an England cap are what he’s got. Is Borgetti better? He’s more experienced and has bags of international goals to his credit. But Johnson has the youth. Hell, I’d try him and Borg upfront. Blistering!
But will he be in a white shirt next season? Hard to tell. Everton and Wigan are lurking, and maybe even Newcastle. If anyone were to beat us, I’d say the Toffees if their bid is as serious as rumoured. Then there’s the cynicism factor. Just as season ticket deadline renewal looms, all this happens. Rivaldo? Not quite the same but those with selective memories will paint the picture they want to see. Personally, I think the club are serious, given their pre-World Cup signings deadline.
Second, Quinton Fortune. We were linked with him a few seasons back until he decided to fight for his place at United, and by all counts the deal’s done and dusted. Forgetting those who believe Bolton having a United player is equal to the Pope recommending the Da Vinci Code as holiday reading, Quint’s a solid player when he gets the chance, and will be reliable if unspectacular. Worth the punt, I’d say.
Thirdly, Little Sammy Lee. The human version of Benny the Ball from Top Cat has allegedly been given permission to talk to Charlton about their managerial vacancy, sparking rumours that next-Wanderers-manager-until-he-messed-up-big-time-at-Derby Phil ‘Literally’ Brown might ride back into town. To be honest, I don’t think Lidl’ Sam’s the first choice of the Addick’s, who have Preston’s Billy Davies in their sights. And he’s not quite ready to manage. So I doubt that one’ll come to owt.
One more for the road: Igor Tudor. The Croatian stopper’s name has been mentioned in fandom rumourland, despite him giving us the bum’s rush a season or so back. I’d have him, though how many games he’d get through card-free is open to debate. Andy Van Der Meyde of Everton has also been mentioned. At least he'd keep the physios busy.
So, it’s all going off big style. Ish. As ever though, only what the club announces counts. Like Jose Carreras cancelling his concert. Shame, he'd fill Bruno's position just nicely.
