Lovell leaves - Crouch rumours step up a gear

Last updated : 19 March 2002 By
Steve Lovell is the first striking casualty since the arrival of Todorov from West Ham this morning. The 21 year old has been in and out of Rix's plans this season but has failed to cement his place in the first team.

Lovell is raw and is guilty of missing guilt edge chances - leaving doubts in Rix's mind whether he can cut it in Division One. With Sheffield United still reeling from Saturday's debacle against West Brom, it is likely that Lovell will go straight into the starting line up against Millwall over the weekend.

Lovell was another one of Alan Ball's big hopes but he has failed to impress - except for his remarkable ability to fall over whenever he goes on a run. WIth Lovell leaving, it seems unlikely that any other strikers will be allowed to leave. Especially Peter Crouch.

Crouch has been Rix's saviour this season, but many national papers are reporting that Aston Villa have made a £3.5million bid for the lanky front man. This story has not been denied or afirmed by Aston Villa or Pompey.

Check the site later for our in depth, exclusive report of Graham Rix's future, as well as some more news about the Flahavan Memorial Football tournament.