Bowyer rumour resurfaces

The former Leeds man’s contract at West Ham runs out at the end of the season and defeat at Bolton on Saturday will effectively relegate the Hammers, leaving them with little choice but to release the midfielder.

Friday’s version of the story appeared in the Daily Star, for what that’s worth, but with Sir Bobby having previously admitted to trying to sign Bowyer there may be some truth in it despite the player’s poor form.

Meanwhile Southend defender Leon Cort, brother of Carl, has denied that he is set to move to St James’ Park in the summer.

Another rumoured transfer target, Jaap Stam of Lazio has said that he won’t consider a return to the Premiership when he leaves Stadio Olimpico in the summer, while Oleg Luzhny’s agent claims the veteran Arsenal defender is on his way to Tyneside in the summer.