Fan Zhiyi that. The Chinese Beckham linked with Newport

Last updated : 10 June 2003 By Michael Morris
No direct quotes from anyone but it's claimed Nicholas is leading the way for the signature of the 106 times capped Chinese international.

Leo FW was linked with Bristol Rovers but that has been denied by Chairman Geoff Dunford who says Rovers have no plans to speak to centre forward.

As for players coming in there's only the same old script being read from.

We may make a signing this week, we are talking to Premiership players. Truth is several members of club staff inc Lennie are on holiday. Many players contracts only run out at end of June and if an out of contract player is to sign then why start paying him now when there is no football to be played.

There are no direct quotes from City officials who so far have only confirmed we are interested in John Robinson. There's no update on the claims yesterday about Mark Delaney.

There could be changes behind the scenes with Lennie thought to be bringing in his own backroom staff. Paul Wilkinson, just released from Grimsby is set to be the new reserve team coach and there are unconfirmed rumours that Steve Thompson, Charlton skipper when they reached the old Division 1 under Lennie, is lined up to be the new assistant manager.

As it is the silly season all this rumour and speculation is probably a million miles away from the truth but we need something to keep us going until the players report back for pre season training in 20 days time.

Don't forget the new Division 1 fixtures are released around 10am on Thursday June 19th.