Sell on for Shrimpers with Scunthorpe Gary Hooper and Charlton Nicky Bailey

25 May 2010 10:16
Southend United are in the strange position of possibily gaining more cash from sell on clauses than they receive for players sold in the present squad. Gary Hooper: Could bring in some welcome dosh to the ShrimpersFormer Blues striker Gary Hooper, now banging them in for Championship club Scunthorpe United, is believed to have been shown around Glasgow Celtic's Lennoxtown training complex, and we all know what happens whe young Gary is shown around places, usually golf courses. If present Hoops caretaker boss Neil Lennon is confirmed as the permenant manager in the next few days expect Gary to be the subject of a £2million pound transfer to the Scottish Premiership club As a result, Iron manager Nigel Adkins admits he faces a struggle to hold onto the former Grays Athletic forward, who he signed from Southend for £175,000 in the summer of 2008. "There has been a lot of interest in Gary all season — a lot of interest. A lot of clubs have been watching him all season. I know Celtic have been down on numerous occasions. But Gary can handle the attention because he is a sensible kid. I don't know anything about him being up in Glasgow for a look around because our chairman is dealing with any interest that comes along. But I do know there has been plenty." Hooper has netted 50 goals in 95 games since joining Scunthorpe and helped the club win promotion from League One in his first season as he netted 30 goals. A further 20 followed last season in the Championship but such form is in contrast to his time at Southend where he scored just four times in 44 appearances. Blues declined to comment about Hooper's future. But, after their well documented financial problems last season, such a large sum will be gratefully received as they look to bolster their squad ahead of next season back in League Two. Southend could also receive a further cash boost as they also have a 20 per cent sell-on clause with their ex-midfielder Nicky Bailey, who now captains Charlton Athletic and has been linked with a number of Championship clubs.

Source: FOOTYMAD