Source: SKY_Sports
Moyes still wants Lescott stay
Everton manager David Moyes admits he is taking a gamble by dropping Joleon Lescott from his squad, but still does not want to sell the defender.
The England centre-back has been axed from the Toffees' squad for Thursday's Europa League clash with Sigma Olomouc at Goodison Park due to attitude problems.
Lescott is a target of Manchester City, who have already had two bids rejected, and the former Wolves player has had a transfer request turned down by Everton.
Moyes believes the 27-year-old's attitude has been affected by the saga and will therefore play either midfielders Phil Neville or Jack Rodwell alongside Joseph Yobo in the centre of defence against Sigma.
The Scot confesses he is taking a risk ahead of play-off first leg, saying: "Yes, this is a gamble. And it will be one of those two, Neville or Rodwell, who will play in defence."
DeadlineBut Moyes insists he still does not want to let Lescott, who played in Saturday's 6-1 mauling by Arsenal, leave Goodison Park.
He said: "I hope this will all be sorted out, after the deadline.
"People can read what they like into this. But I have said all along I don't want to sell him.
"But it is a bit like Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Manchester United, there is always a price.
"At this moment no club has made us an offer for the player that we want to accept."
