Moyes defends injured Lescott's absence as City set sights on Bassong

03 August 2009 02:13
David Moyes insisted that Joleon Lescott sat out Everton's friendly draw at Coventry on Sunday with a hip injury and not because the England defender is any closer to joining Manchester City. Moyes said: 'Joleon picked up a hip injury in America so he didn't travel with the squad - why would I take an injured player?' Missing man: Everton boss David Moyes insists Manchester City target Joleon Lescott did not play at Coventry due to injury Even if Lescott demands a move it is believed Moyes will refuse to sell. City, who have set a £20million ceiling for the player, have had two bids rejected and will switch to other targets, with Newcastle's Sebastien Bassong top of their list. Chelsea's Alex is another option, while re-signing Sylvain Distin from Portsmouth cannot be ruled out. Newcastle's interim boss Chris Hughton says he knows nothing about any possible move for Bassong, despite City's interest and reports of a £10m bid by Tottenham. He said: 'I saw something on TV this morning and it was the first I'd heard of it. I haven't spoken to anybody since then. It's just speculation.'

Source: Daily_Mail