By Paul Holmes
September 20 2002

Portsmouth manager Harry Redkanpp has admitted his interest in Bradford striker Ashley Ward. The 31-year-old striker earns a rumoured £18,000 a week at Valley Parade, Bradford are so keen to be rid of his wages that they are prepared to give him a free transfer or pay half his wages in a year-long loan deal.

Speaking about Ward, Redknapp said: Portsmouth manager Harry Redkanpp has admitted his interest in Bradford striker Ashley Ward.

Bradford chairman Gordon Gibb told the Yorkshire Post that a deal was likely and explained the reasoning behind it. Portsmouth have been in touch and we are talking over the finer details.

"This is a financial decision on our behalf, but hopefully some of the money this deal would free up will allow the manager to bring in another striker to replace Ashley."