Moore interest confirmed

04 June 2001

Albion have reportedly confirmed their interest in Portsmouth defender Darren Moore, according to Portsmouth local paper The News. Formerly with Bradford City, Moore is strong and tall, and he made a good job of dealing with Lee Hughes when Albion last played Bradford; Megson views him as a key addition to what is currently a somewhat stunted defence.

Baggies Chief Executive John Wile is quoted in The News as saying:

"Darren Moore is a tall, powerful, dominating centre-half - and that's one area manager Gary Megson is trying to strengthen. I spoke to Portsmouth about Darren Moore last season and I spoke to them again very recently. We're going to talk more this week - but we are not at the stage of discussing a fee."

Moore is quoted as being "£2 million rated", but apparently his International appearances for Jamaica have caused problems. Ex-manager Tony Pulis finally withdrew permission for him to play for his country, and the subject is likely to be a major factor in him agreeing to a move. The News goes on to say that the sale of Moore would not be a popular move down South, quoting one fan saying:

"Darren Moore is not only our captain, but the cornerstone of our defence. His absence in the last two months of the season through injury left a gaping hole and showed our lack of cover. It will be a disgrace if he's allowed to leave and illustrate the club's lack of ambition."

At present, however, talks are having to wait until all the Portsmouth hierarchy come back from their holidays...

Previous Stories:

  24 May 2001:  Transfer funds question?

  22 May 2001:  Thompson promises summer signings

  18 May 2001:  Can the Baggies beat Big Business?

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