LuaLua warned to deliver
05 Jun 2007 - 09:06:46
Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp has challenged striker Lomana Tresor LuaLua to hit the net more often to prove his worth at Fratton Park.
The 26-year-old is a reported target for Spanish side Espanyol, but Redknapp thinks the DR Congo international can still be a success with Pompey.
He said: "LuaLua's got great ability, but he's got to start producing next season.
"He is a terrific player, but the penny has got to drop with him. He has got to start performing and he needs to do what he's capable of.
"When he's playing well, he is almost unplayable. He is a fantastic talent. He is a good lad, not a bad lad. He has just got to put all his energies into football."
LuaLua has scored 19 goals in 91 appearances for the South Coast club since his arrival from Newcastle United in February 2004, with his time with Pompey hit by a bout of malaria and the tragic death of his son.
Meanwhile, LuaLua has admitted that he may consider moving on, telling The Sun: "In countries like Spain a player of my talent would have a team built around them.
"Everyone has special gifts and I'm one of those players that can do unpredictable things, but that is not always appreciated over here."