Stefanovic steal

Last updated : 18 January 2005 By Keith Allman
It was tonight revealed that Feyenoord have been trying to tap up Dejan Stefanovic after their bid to buy the player was rejected.

Chairman Milan Mandaric, speaking at a supporters club meeting, revealed the Dutch giants had made a big money offer for the popular defender who was playing in Holland for Vitesse before he came to Fratton Park. When the original bid was rejected outright Feyenoord then went directly to the player instead, who also turned down the offer and immediately spoke to Mandaric of his desire to stay at Portsmouth.

Stefanovic has always been outspoken in his love of England, and even when playing abroad kept a house over here from his days at Sheffield Wednesday. Since being at Pompey he has frequently mentioned his plans to stay locally and raise his family around Portsmouth, even after he retires. Personally I hope he stays here for as long as possible as he's a fantastic and solid player. This sort of illegal approach from Feyenoord is unwelcome, immoral, and should be dealt with by the relevant authorities - although no doubt won't be.