Egyptian striker Ahmed ‘Mido’ Hossam claims a move to Newcastle is unlikely to happen as Sir Bobby Robson can not guarantee him regular first-team football, leaving Fulham and Southampton to vie for his signature.
Mido met Robson recently and the respected tactician made it clear he wanted the striker on Tyneside, but he told the Egyptian he would not be a regular in the team in the coming season. Mido, who is desperate for first-team action following a season of frustration at Stade Velodrome, claims Robson told him he would be Alan Shearer’s long term replacement.
“I know everybody read a different reason for the (Newcastle) transfer not going through, but the truth is that it wasn’t a financial reason at all, nor was it a French decision not to let me go,” Mido said.
“When I met with Sir Bobby Robson he was clear with me and told me that he wanted to prepare me for the 2005-2006 season
“In his respected opinion I have lots of similarities in my way of playing with Alan Shearer and this prevents him from starting with both of us.
“I thought about it for some time but came to a decision that I need to play regularly next season, so that I can pick up my level after my very unfortunate season with Marseille.”
Commenting on his future, Mido added: “I have a meeting next Monday with Southampton officials to discuss a possible move, and they assured me that the financial demands of Marseille will be met, so all I need is to hear what their coach has to say about his vision for the team and for me in the upcoming season.
“Also, just hours ago I got a call from Fulham’s manager Chris Coleman and I am set to have a meeting with him next week.”
Mido poured cold water on the possibility of moving to Liverpool and says he is not yet ready to tackle Serie A.
Mido concluded by stressing he expects to have his future sorted by the end of next week, with Southampton and Fulham seemingly set to fight it out for his signature.
