Ronnie Moore talks about City's interest in Andy Monkhouse

Last updated : 25 June 2003 By Michael Morris
Ronnie Moore has warned Sam Hammam that he will need to dig deep for left midfielder Andy Monkhouse.

"I don't think Sam will be able to afford Andy. He's a good left winger and they are hard to find these days. I don't really want to sell him. I'm in no rush to get rid of Andy. He does figure highly in my plans and he'll be virtually impossible to replace. Having said that, we are a selling club because our financial situation is desperate. There's no doubt about it, we badly need money."

Moore confirmed the news that broke at the end of last week that City were interested in Monkhouse.

"Sam rang me up about Andy and the ball is in my court. I will get back to him on Friday and tell him exactly how much we want for the player. I'm not going public with the figure because it's only fair that Sam should be the first to know."

"I believe Cardiff are paying around £700,000 for Rob Hulse but Andy is worth more than that. He's a young lad and potentially he's a very good player. If he can get some consistency to his game then I think he could play in the Premier League.

"I know Sam has got a few bob but I'm not sure he will want to buy Andy once I tell how much the club wants for him. I've got a feeling Sam will say 'No'. But for all I know, he may no longer be interested in Andy. He hasn't exactly been pestering me on the phone after first calling me!"

Monkhouse is not a regular starter for Rotherham, he has only started 33 league games in 5 years at Millmoor with 42 appearances off the bench. It sounds to me me like Ronnie Moore is trying to get Sam to part with more cash than this lad is worth.

"Andy has flattered to deceive but Sam will have a gem on his hands if he does buy him. There's no question that Andy has got potential. The big question is whether he fulfils that potential."