No new year arrivals?

Last updated : 24 December 2002 By Martyn Elliott

"I would think Jaap Stam is too expensive," he told The Journal.

"I've always said the most important players are the players who are at the club now and those who are already under contract.

"We don't want to spend any money but we will if it is necessary. There are some players who we really like but they're not available.

"If clubs come to me asking to buy Aaron Hughes, Andy Griffin or Craig Bellamy I won't sell them so why should it be any different when we try to sign someone?

"Like everyone else I'd think about selling if we were offered silly money but I don't think that kind of money exists any more. That might be a good thing."

With the team already rich in attacking and midfield options it looks as if Sir Bobby has decided to give Aaron Hughes, Andy Griffin, Steve Caldwell, Titus Bramble and Andy O’Brien the chance to prove themselves.