News Index

All the news from Molineux Updated Daily, for earlier News see 'The Wolves' Site Archives

30th June 2001

Another Fixture Changed

Wolves have had another match rescheduled for television, their match at Molineux with Sheffield Wednesday has been rearranged for Sunday 18th November, with a 2pm kick-off.

29th June 2001

Ketsbaia Interest Confirmed

Scotish club Dundee Utd have started transfer talks with Wolves over £400,000-rated Georgian international Temuri Ketsbaia. A Dundee spokesman confirmed today, "There has been contact between the club and player but it would be extremely premature to suggest any deal has been struck.''
The former Newcastle midfielder joined Wolves at the start of last season for £900,000, but now wants to leave Molineux after an unsuccessful first season, and has declared that Dens Park would be his preferred destination with Georgian national captain Georgi Nemsadze already at Dundee who Ketsbaia has always wanted to play alongside.
Ketsbaia said: "He's the main reason I have decided on Dundee. After Dundee, I'll finish my career in Greece.''
Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey added, "We have had an initial inquiry and conversation but nothing further than that.''
 

28th June 2001

Transfers Update

Jez Moxey has ruled out that Wolves made a bid for West Brom's Lee Hughes after it was reported yesterday that Dave Jones had contacted Albion about the striker's current situation, but he refused to confirm or deny that the club had enquired about him.
But he did reveal they have made another seven-figure bid for a player and once again Jez is refusing to reveal the player's identity.
The Wolves chief executive has been saying for weeks that the club have had a number of irons in the fire but has now stated another substantial offer has been tabled, reportedly for a Premiership player.
Temuri Ketsbaia could be on his way to Dundee Utd after turning his back on a move to Greece.

See the Gossip page for more transfer rumours

Fixtures Change

Wolves are so far only affected by one televised game, there match against Coventry at Highfield Road, which will be covered by ITV's new Digital channel, will now take place on Sunday 19th August at 6.15pm, which means the Worthington Cup tie with Swindon Town will now take place a day later, the 22nd August, instead of Tuesday, 21st August.
Wolves have also confirmed that the two home derbies against West Brom and Birmingham City, in December,  have both been moved from Saturday to Sunday with 1.00pm kick-offs.
 

27th June 2001

Transfers Update

West Brom have revealed Dave Jones has made an enquiry about bringing Lee Hughes to Molineux.
The Baggies have had three firm enquiries in total, with Wolves making one of them.
But Wolves chances of landing appear to be slim as Hughes himself is adamant he will not leave West Brom for another West Midlands club.

Wolves have put in another bid for Preston NE striker Jon Macken.
Their first offer for Macken was £2.5million which was turned down, and now Wolves have placed a £4 million bid for the striker, which would break there existing record of £3million which they paid for Ade Akinbiyi in September 1999.
Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey said, "I know Dave is keen to sign a quality striker and I can only hope Preston will reconsider their decision."
Preston chief executive Tony Scholes retorted, "We have told Wolves in no uncertain terms that Jon is not for sale."

Mark Kennedy's move to Wolves has hit a hitch, with the winger refusing to quit Manchester City until he has had a pay-off from the Maine Road club.
The Republic of Ireland star, who did not ask for a transfer, believes he is entitled to a severance payment.
However, Wolves expect to complete the signing next weekend, with manager Dave Jones delighted about his £2million capture.
Agreement has been reached between the clubs, with Kennedy due to sign when he returns from holiday.
 

26th June 2001

Greek Interest in Ketsbaia

Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey has confirmed the interest in Temuri Ketsbaia from PAOK Salonica.
The 33-year-old Georgian international cost Wolves £900,000 at the start of last season from Newcastle but the club will be looking to recoup around £500,000. Ketsbaia was a long time target of AEK Athens.
Moxey said: "We have heard from an agent there is interest in Temuri from Greece.
"We have told him to find out the strength of the interest and then come back to us."

Season Ticket Sales Up

Wolves have reported season ticket sales are up by seven percent. Saturday's cut-off date for renewals saw last year's total for the same period equalled and then surpassed by nearly 700 extra sales.

25th June 2001

Meet Bully

I received this email, if anyone is interested in doing it please contact Matt Teale by email or phone number below, if you get to do it, please let me know how you got on.

Gavin,

I'm putting together a series of football documentaries for ITV's new sports channel, the first of which is about one-club heroes. We are featuring Steve Bull and I'm trying to find some die hard Bully fans to pay tribute to the great man on camera.

Unfortunately, I need them to be able to do it at the Wolves ground this Thursday (28th)! Can you put me in touch with two or three people who can help? Could be an opportunity to meet the great man!

Matt Teale
Tel: 0115 964 5586

24th June 2001

Sinton Contract Update

Andy Sinton has been told if he wants a new one-year contract at Molineux he must lower his wage expectations at next week's contract talks, the arrival of Mark Kennedy's means his services may not be called upon as much which means the club could afford to lose him.
The 35-year-old is out of contract shortly, and the two parties have failed to reach agreement despite Wolves' offer of a contract extension to Sinton at the end of last season.

Contract discussions are also continuing with Stockport right-back Sean Connelly, who spent the last month and a half at Molineux.

23rd August 2001

Another Player on way

Just after the news that Wolves are to make there first sign of the summer, Mark Kennedy from Man City, Jez Moxey has announced that Wolves have put in another substantial bid for a player.
But again everyone at Molineux is keeping tight lipped over who it is.
Chief executive Jez Moxey said: "In keeping with club policy, at this stage, we are not naming the man concerned. To do so would just alert other people to him.
"But I can confirm that we have made a seven figure written bid for the player and I'm hoping that it will be accepted".

22nd June 2001

First Summer Signing

Wolves are set to make there first summer signing, Man City's Mark Kennedy. He agreed terms on Thursday and will be joining Wolves on a five year contract subject to him passing a medical when he returns from holiday at the end of the month.
Chief executive Jez Moxey confirmed that an agreement has been reached with all parties and, subject to passing the medical, the Irish international will be joining Wolves when he returns from a family holiday at the end of the month.
Jez said "I would like to apologise to our supporters for the delay in bringing in a new player. We moved as quickly as we were able.
"Now, we will be turning our attention to the acquisition of further players and I will provide an update on the situation as soon as it's possible to do so."
Manager Dave Jones said "He will be a big benefit to Wolves with his experience, pace and ability. He can not only provide goals, but score them as well. He is a quality player and is of an age where he can serve the football club for years to come."

21st June 2001

2001/02 Fixtures

The fixtures were announced today for next season, Wolves first game is again at home, this time they will play Portsmouth on the first day of the season, but the fixtures will no doubt change as soon as ITV and On Digital get there hands on the lists and swap things for televised matches. Click here for full list.
 

19th June 2001

Boss Back

Wolves boss Dave Jones returned to Molineux after his family holiday and the rumours are carrying on as we wait to see his first summer signing. Players linked include Tim Sherwood, Alex Rae, Clinton Morrison, Marcus Bent, Steve Guppy and various keepers new players to be linked are Man City's Mark Kennedy who is thought to be 7 figure target Jez Moxey is keeping close to his chest, Nicky Summerbee on a free transfer from Bolton and Brentford midfielder Gavin Mahon in a swap deal with striker Rob Taylor.

Worthington Cup Draw

The Worthington Cup first round draw was made today with a difference the opening round is played on a one-off basis unlike previous seasons, when they were played over two legs.
Wolves have been against Second Division Swindon Town at Molineux on Tuesday, 21st August with the game kicking-off at 7.45pm.
 

18th June 2001

Wolves late bid for Joachim

Wolves have expressed a firm interest in Aston Villa striker Julian Joachim who was due to be involved in a swap deal with Coventry's Mustapha Hadji at the end of last week.
Villa boss John Gregory set up a straight swap deal, but the deal was hit by a late complication when Wolves boss Dave Jones expressed an interest in signing Joachim. Despite his efforts it now seems Jones has failed in his late bid, the deal rests in the hands of Joachim, who will take his time before making a decision on his future.
He said: "If something came up, I would be interested, but it would have to be the right move."
 

17th June 2001

Ticket Sales Going Well

Wolves have reported that season ticket sales have bean going steady and they expect to sell a lot more once new players start arriving at Molineux.
 

16th June 2001

Win a signed Ball

This summer you can a win a Wolves football signed by the squad, in Spot the Ball. Click here to play

Kennedy Linked

Republic of Ireland winger Mark Kennedy is the latest player linked with Wolves.
Nobody at Molineux or Maine Road would confirm any contact, but reports suggest Wolves are considering a £2m bid for the Manchester City player.
Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey is still refusing to reveal who Dave Jones is targeting and City themselves are also adopting a cautious approach to the rumour.
A City spokeswoman said: "Unless there is anything 100 per cent certain Kevin Keegan is refusing to comment."

Reserves Stay Up

Wolves relegated reserve team have been saved the drop from Avon Insurance League's premier division,  because Bolton's promotion meant there was a spare place available which was given to Wolves.
 

15th June 2001

No, to Macken Bid

Preston NE have told Wolves there's no way they are selling star striker Jon Macken.
Dave Jones is thought to be lining up a £3m bid for Macken, who has scored 47 goals in the last two seasons.
But Preston chairman Bryan Gray has laughed off suggestions that the 23-year-old would be allowed to leave Deepdale.
"They can't be serious," said Gray.
"I haven't had any discussions with Wolves. But I am surprised anyone would even consider such a thing."
And Preston chief executive Tony Scholes added: "There is no way Preston North End would entertain an offer for Jon Macken and people know that."

14th June 2001

Pre-season Update

Wolves have announced they will be playing a pre-season friendly against Royal Antwerp in Belgium after their tour of Portugal.
The match will take place on Tuesday 31st July,  just three days before Wolves take on Liverpool at Molineux.

Norwegian Winger Linked by Jostein Jensen

Stian Ohr is linked away to Wolves in Norway...

Transfer Alert

Name: Stian Ohr
Born: 05.01.78
Former clubs: Molde, Hødd and Start
Position: Left winger / forward
Verdict: Fast forward that can be used in every position forward. After being a substitute in Molde he ended up in Start where he have had success. Several clubs have showed their interest in the talented player amongst them Tippeliga leaders Viking and Molde that wants him back. Stian ends his contract when the season ends in Norway and will then probably go on a Bosman. Danish clubs AGF and Aalborg have showed interest lately as have Wolves and Brann Bergen. "Brann is interesting. It would be wrong to say anything else," said Ohr that is born in Bergen. "But in respect to Start I would not say anything about this before 1. July," said the player that then can sign for wich club he want. A fee on 3-million kroner have earlier been put on the player, or around £230.000. Jailhouse Rock know that Lennie Lawrence have heard about the player, the biggest question is about he want and can compete for the signature of the player.

 Jostein Jensen
http://jailhouserock.cjb.net
 

13th June 2001

Taylor Bid Rejected

Wolves have had a £2million bid for Aston Villa midfielder Ian Taylor turned down by Villa boss John Gregory, who said that Taylor is in his plans for next season and the the player is keen to see out his current deal with the Premiership club. Wolves boss Dave Jones is looking to strengthen his midfield in the summer with some experienced players but will now have to look elsewhere for new signings.
One potential target is thought to be Hearts midfielder Lee Makel. his club couldn't or wouldn't agree renewed terms with the player who is out of contract at the end of the month.
 

12th June 2001

Friendly Update

Wolves pre-season friendly with Liverpool has been moved forward a day from Saturday 4th August to the 3rd August at 7.45pm.
The treble cup winning club requested the change because they might be playing a European Champions League qualifier on Tuesday 7th and it could be anywhere in Europe.
Wolves Chief Executive Jez Mozey said: "Whilst we are disappointed that the date has changed, hopefully it won't inconvenience our supporters but we fully understand the situation and are very much looking forward to welcoming Liverpool to Molineux. It promises to be an entertaining evening."
Ticket prices for the game and selling dates will be announced at a later date.
 

11th June 2001

Ex-Manager Dies

Wolves former manager Ronnie Allen has died aged 72 after a long struggle against Alzheimer's Disease.
He passed away at a nursing home in Great Wyrley at the weekend with his second wife Cynthia at his side, to whom he was married for 30 years.
He became coach of Wolves when he retired from playing and took over as manager on Andy Beattie's departure in January 1966. When Allen took over, Wolves were struggling near the bottom of the 2nd Division but he bought wisely, signing both Mike Bailey and Derek Dougan, and in 1966/67 they won promotion to the 1st Division. But he was more famous during his playing career for arch rivals West Brom during the 1950's scoring 208 goals in 415 league appearances for the Baggies.
Allen also won five England caps.

£2.5 Million Bid for Secret Striker

Chief Executive Jez Moxey has announced Wolves have made a £2.5 million bid for a striker, but wouldn't name the player as he is still under contract at his club. The club have asked Wolves to give them more time over the transfer, but Wolves won't want to wait to long and risk missing out on other targets if this deal falls through. Dave Jones is thought to have five other players in mind and there will be more players exiting Molineux.
 

8th June 2001

Transfers Update

Wolves chief executive Jez Moxey has ruled out moves for Tim Sherwood and Clinton Morrison, but confirmed that Wolves have made three substantial bids for other players.
Wolves have had a seven-figure bid accepted for one of there secret targets, but Moxey is refusing to name who until the deal is finalised.
The other two bids that have been made are also being kept quiet, but Dave Jones is keen to add to his squad by July, when the players report back for pre-season training.
Moxey said: "We have made a couple of other bids at substantial prices. We are determined to give the manager our full support but we will not be paying silly money for players."
 

6th June 2001

Sherwood Talks Confirmed

Eric Hall, Tim Sherwood's agent has confirmed that he's had talks with Wolves over a £3million move for the Spurs midfielder. 
Wolves themselves have refused to confirm they have made enquiries after Sherwood was linked with them over the last few days and is thought to be one of Dave Jones' prime targets.
Hall said: "We are now waiting for Wolves to get back to us."

5th June 2001

Moxey confirms big bids

Wolves Chief Executive Jez Moxey has confirmed that Wolves have made a seven figure offer, but refused to give any clues as to the player's identity.
He said: "I have spoken to the club and given them my word that names won't be named until completion of a deal is imminent.
"We have several irons in the fire at present and though Dave (Jones) is away on holiday at the moment, it doesn't mean to say that things aren't going on behind the scenes."
"We intend to see some new blood at the club by then though that doesn't mean to say that we will be rushing into any decisions.
"But I do feel that it's important for our supporters to know that whilst things may seem a little on the quiet side, I can assure them work in strengthening the team is underway."
Wolves have been linked with bids for Spurs Tim Sherwood, Sunderland's Alex Rae and Crystal Palace duo Clinton Morrison and Hayden Mullins.
Moxey stressed the importance of making any additions to the squad as quickly as possible, with the start of pre-season training less than a month away but wouldn't name any names.

3rd June 2001

Transfer News

Wolves are still in talks with three remaining players whose contracts ran out this summer, Andy Sinton, Sean Connelly and Colin Larkin. With no sign of any players signing over the next two weeks as Wolves boss Dave Jones left today for his two week holiday, although he has said he will return if necessary.
Dave Jones has also revealed there has been no enquiries from clubs for out of favour Temuri Ketsbaia or Robert Taylor yet, which have dented his hopes of raising further funds and clearing out unwanted players after  warnings from the Wolves board he must sell as well as buy.
Wolves will not be funding there transfers this summer by selling the youth players that have done so well in the first team.
 

2nd June 2001

Rae Transfer Update

Dave Jones target Alex Rae has had some fluid removed from his knee and should be fit for pre-season training in July. The Wolves boss has been keeping an eye on the 31-year-old Scot because of fears he might need a summer knee operation for tendonitis.
Jones is now likely to step up his interest after the positive fitness test and Bradford have also joined in the chase for the hard tackling midfielders signature, although Peter Reid is known to have a high regard for Rae and might not even sell him because of trying to build a big squad at the Stadium of Light.
It would take a bid of more than £1m to set up any chance of bringing the player south, but Jones certainly has the funds and has stressed that he is looking for experience to supplement the youngsters in his squad.