Big Sam wants Nolan

Jan 6 2008 by Neil Farrington, Sunday Sun

SAM ALLARDYCE is targeting Bolton midfielder Kevin Nolan as Newcastle’s big January signing.

Newcastle boss Allardyce is set to move for his former Reebok Stadium skipper amid doubts over the futures of Emre and Joey Barton at St James’s Park.

And with Nolan under fire from a section of Bolton’s support after a lengthy run of poor form, the Trotters are now prepared to do business.

The 25-year-old rose to prominence and the verge of the full England squad under Allardyce, but has not been at his best over the last 12 months.

Matters came to a head in midweek when Nolan’s substitution during Bolton’s victory over Derby drew ironic cheers from home fans.

But Allardyce remains convinced of Nolan’s ability, with the Scouser’s eye for goal a particular attraction.

It may be that Nolan – who is understood to share the same agent as Allardyce – could replace Emre, who is unsettled and in demand, according to his agent.

Galatasaray have been keeping tabs on Emre, and his agent Ahmet Bulut said yesterday: “There are a lot of clubs interested but they have to speak to Newcastle.

“He (Emre) is not happy because he is not playing.”