Josh Walker determined to show what he can do

Nov 22 2009 by Steve Brown, Sunday Sun

Crosby delivered a glowing report on Walker to manager Ian Sampson, and Sampson believes the midfielder is keen to prove himself.

“I am really pleased to bring Josh to the club and I think he will prove a great acquisition,” Sampson said. “He is a player I have known about for a couple of years and with Malcolm Crosby coming in he has just backed up my view of Josh.

“I didn’t think he would be available but the chairman has done very well for us and Middlesbrough have also helped us out as well.

“Technically he has a lot of ability and he is really looking forward to showing what he can do.”

Meanwhile, Boro are understood to be monitoring Norwich City winger Wes Hoolahan as a potential replacement for Adam Johnson.

Reports last week suggested Chelsea are preparing a £4 million bid for Johnson in the transfer window, with the possibility of loaning the player back to Boro until the end of the season.

Should the latter clause fail to materialise, however, Boro could make an early swoop for Canaries star Hoolahan. The 27-year-old Irishman has eight goals this season.