Shepherd Puts Block On Deals

Last updated : 23 March 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Shepherd has put a block on Glenn Roeder's plans by halting new contract talks, despite the manager wanting to tie up the four players immediately. Shepherd wants European football at St James' Park next season, but with several of the clubs above Newcastle in the Premiership applying for the InterToto Cup, the position is not too bright.

Bramble, Sibierski and Solano are all out of contract in the summer and, in theory, can discuss terms with other clubs under the Bosman ruling. Something Roeder could do without.

Bramble knows only too well Celtic, Portsmouth, Ipswich and two un-named clubs are waiting in the wings, and it is thought he could take up his option. Meanwhile Milner is still wanted by Aston Villa, the club he almost signed for last season, and he has waited three months to tie up his future.

Sibierski wants a two-year contract but Newcastle have offered only a 12-month deal to the 32-year-old. Solano, who has been superb this season, will only be offered a one year deal.

Roeder must also make a decision on Oguchi Onyewu and Craig Moore in the coming weeks. Onyewu has only signed on loan from Standard Liege until the end of the season, while Moore has proved a good player but very injury prone.