Sam's losing hope on Wes!

Dec 16 2007 by Neil Farrington, Sunday Sun

NEWCASTLE have given up hope of landing Manchester United defender Wes Brown during the January transfer window.

Sam Allardyce is an admirer of Brown, who has turned down a final contract offer at Old Trafford and could leave for nothing next summer.

But the Magpies manager believes he has no chance of buying the England international next month.

“Wes Brown is not going to be available from Manchester United in January given their level of commitment this season,” said Allardyce.

“I can’t see Sir Alex letting him leave the club with Gary Neville being injured.

“I know he (Ferguson) has got some good young cover coming through in Pique and Simpson, but when it comes down to the nitty-gritty, it boils down to experience.”

And Allardyce believes Brown could yet end up staying put beyond the summer.

“There have been many times at Manchester United where players, because that club is so big, get their problems resolved in the end,” added Big Sam.

Meanwhile, Allardyce says simple mathematics means he will not contemplate selling Michael Owen in January, contrary to widespread speculation.

“It’s nonsense,” said the United boss. “You just have to look at the squad. Take away the four African Nations Cup players and see where I’m left.

“Where I’m left is short of numbers in all areas.”

The Sunday Sun understands Owen is likely to be allowed to move on next summer for the right price, although the player himself may decide to sit tight and see out the final year of his contract.