Fulham have joined Tottenham and Middlesbrough in the race to sign Bolton striker Michael Ricketts after the England international handed in a transfer request yesterday.
 |
Fulham target
Michael Ricketts |
| Position |
Attacker |
| DOB |
04/12/78 |
| P.O.B. |
Birmingham |
| Height |
6' 2" |
| Club |
Bolton |
The transfer request was announced in a curt statement by Bolton. "We are very disappointed that Michael has decided to take this course of action, particularly after all the hard work we have invested in him since his arrival from Walsall," a club spokesman said. "However, if a player is adamant in his desire to leave the club, then providing we get an offer that reflects his true value, we will not step in his way."
Ricketts, 24, said: "I've come to the conclusion that the interests of all parties are best served by me continuing my career away from Bolton.
"The interest shown in me by other Premiership clubs has been flattering.
"This has not been an easy decision to make. The manager gave me the initial opportunity to prove that I am capable of performing at a higher level.
"I think I have rewarded his faith and repaid the club's investment.
"I feel that I need to give myself the best opportunity of returning to the international fold and seriously challenging for honours within the game."
Bolton are insisting on £6m in cash and have so far knocked back an offer of £1m plus Gary Doherty from Tottenham.
Ricketts, managed by the Base Group, has scored 37 goals in 62 starts for Bolton - and was capped against Holland last season.
Sam Allardyce, the Bolton manager, said. "If we are going to sell him then I want at least seven days before the transfer window closes to get somebody else in as a replacement."