Transfer window shopping at Christmas
SWP is one of a few players looking to catch the eye this Christmas
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Charlton manager Les Reed has been sensationally replaced by former West Ham coach Alan Pardew just eight games into his tenure. |  |
Monday, 25, Dec 2006 02:00
The multitude of games over this Christmas period sees many players proving just how fit they are by playing as many as four games in the space of ten days.
However, this period also gives those same players the chance to place themselves in the shop window, much like the intense summer tournaments like the World Cup and the European Championships have led to big-money moves for players in the past.
Talented regulars at smaller clubs will be courted by the big clubs, while unhappy high-profile professionals at others could be looking for a move to secure a first-team place.
Some of the more well-known individuals looking to make the most of clubs' Christmas window shopping include Shaun Wright-Phillips, who may be looking to make the switch away from Stamford Bridge, where he has enjoyed few starts in 18 months since his £21 million move from Manchester City.
Tottenham's Jermain Defoe is also thought to be a target for several clubs, although his recent run in the first team because of the club's injuries upfront could prompt him to hold off on a move, for now.
The talented 18-year-old right-back Micah Richards, who has been impressing coaches and scouts alike at Eastlands this year, could also be set for a big-money transfer to one of the bigger clubs this January, with Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle all reported to be on his trail.
Charlton's Darren Bent has been rumoured to be looking north of the Thames for a reunion with his former manager Alan Curbishley at West Ham, although new Valley boss Les Reed has already issued a pre-emptive 'hands-off' warning to the Upton Park supremo.
West Ham themselves could also be looking around at their rivals, as Curbishley hopes to avoid too much upheaval in his team in January. All eyes will be on the playing time afforded to Argentinean duo Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, as well as the overall performances of current captain Nigel Reo-Coker.