Interest in Lucas Neill from other Premier League outfits has infuriated his current club West Ham United.
The 30 year old defender joined the London side in 2007 and helped them avoid relegation. His current contract expires in the summer.
Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear claimed recently that he had spoken to Neill’s agent which resulted in this response from the Hammers:
We’d like to make it clear Neill is a contracted player and we’ve received no approach from any club, including Newcastle.
We are astonished by reports that a Premier League manager has claimed contact with one of our players.
Meanwhile, a Magpies statement which followed West Ham going public on the matter read:
West Ham have made it clear he is a player they value as an important to of their squad and they have no desire to sell.
Newcastle United respect West Ham’s position and will therefore not be pursing this matter.
