NEWCASTLE UNITED are believed to be scouting Preston North End's Sean Gregan, as manager Bobby Robson considers the options available to him to solve the club's defensive injury crisis. Gregan, 26, joined Preston for #350,000 in 1996 and has gone on to make 144 league appearances, scoring nine goals for the club, and his ability to play both in midfield and at the back is one of the things that has caused Robson to take a look at him.

With Nikos Dabizas, Alain Goma, Marcelino and Warren Barton all currently injured, Robson is looking at a number of defensive players, but he has admitted that his efforts have been hindered by injuries to some of his potential targets.

"We know who we want, but unfortunately two of them are out injured for a couple of weeks," said Robson.

Gregan has been instrumental in the impressive start that Preston have made to their Division One campaign this season, which has seen them rise to fifth in the table, and it will come as no surprise to many of the Deepdale faithful that he is generating interest from the top flight in England.

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000

Answers

Probably sign for us and then pick up a bliddy injury!

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000

I know a scout who works for NUFC I will see him on Monday and try to get some insider information wink wink nod nod say to more

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000

Hey Jay,

I know a Girl Guide who works for Blyth Spartans and she reckons that it no bliddy good waiting until Monday.....we need to know something before the Man City game, so you need to ring your contact NOW

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000

Well that would be a bit dificult I don't see him very often. So Monday is the only option

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000

see comments on the Lawrence thread.

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000

Oh hell ITK. I hope it's not the same Girl Guide I once knoew from Blyth. Mind, on a positive note, she'd be about the right age for you, tho I think using the word girl is stretching things a bit far!

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000