Hooper to Owls just speculation, insists Norwich boss

Norwich boss Alex Neil says Lewis Grabban will not be sold to a direct rival after the Canaries rejected two separate bids from Bournemouth for the striker.
Norwich City's Gary Hooper.Norwich City's Gary Hooper.
Norwich City's Gary Hooper.

The 27-year-old moved to Carrow Road after a spell with the Cherries and could be in line to feature against another former club Rotherham in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday night.

“Yes, we’ve had a few bids for Lewis but they have been rejected,” Neil said.

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Bournemouth have come in with two separate bids and they have both been rejected.

“Lewis is an important part of the squad. Lewis is a clever boy and he can see how much he has featured under me since I have been here and he is a big part of our plans.

“I certainly won’t be giving players to direct rivals. That is the bottom line.”

The Scot is waiting to see how the situation develops and does not expect any departures, despite Gary Hooper being linked with a move, with his former club Celtic among the reported destinations.

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“There has been a lot of speculation surrounding Gary in particular,” Neil said.

“Sheffield Wednesday has been one, Celtic has been mentioned.

“Until we hear anything concrete then it is just speculation. At the moment I don’t expect any departures.”