Rumour Mill - Karpin, Breen & Hedman

Last updated : 17 June 2002 By Christian Kelly

Valery Carping, sorry Valery Karpin, the Russian champion moaner is still linked with us. Karpin is a pretty decent player, but I've seen the heads go down so often at Vigo that I'm not sure he has the temperament that Strachan's looking for.

Gary Breen will be returning from the World Cup to the dole queue. Unless either Saints or Everton come in for him. Breen has looked fairly solid at the World Cup. Good enough for us at any rate. The good news is that Breen has already played under Strachan at Coventry so they know each other well. The bad news is that Breen has aready played under Strachan at Coventry and the rumour is that they don't get on.

Another World Cup link has us about to buy Marcus Hedman. Apparently we've already tried and that he wanted too much money. As we pay the lowest wages in the premiership, it doesn't necessarily make Hedman a mercenary. Hedman insists that it the £4 million price tag, Coventry have put on him that is the problem. he Swedish international said:

"There are not many sides who will pay that much money for a goalkeeper. There are only a few clubs in England who can afford to pay £4million for a keeper.

"The price tag will directly put off many interested clubs. I will have to continue to play in the First Division as things stand."

To save further money Saints are looking to bring in players on Bosmans. Any money will then be spent on wages rather than transfer fees. No Robbie Keane then. As if.