Hoddle seeks fantasy swap

Last updated : 10 June 2003 By Martyn Elliott

The White Hart Lane club have apparently, but not surprisingly, turned down a bid for the Republic of Ireland international that involved them taking injury-prone Carl Cort in part exchange.

Instead Hoddle is said to want Shola Ameobi in return for Carr, an offer that has been rejected by Newcastle.

Shola scored eight times last season despite starting only 12 games, a total that was only bettered by Alan Shearer and Craig Bellamy, and is one of the most improved players in the Premiership over the last 12 months.

Carr worth as much as Ameobi? Hoddle must be letting Eileen Drury make his decisions again.

Meanwhile Porto’s Portugal international midfielder Deco and Hamburg’s Iran international Mehdi Mahdavikia are the latest players linked with a move to St James’ Park.