By Paul Holmes
August 1 2002

Despite claims that Paul Merson would sign for Portsmouth following a bust-up with Graham Taylor, the players agent has denied such move. Merson was linked with Portsmouth in several of Thursday's national papers.

The Daily Mirror even carried quotes from Pompey boss Harry Redkanpp regarding the player and a paragraph which claimed assisitant boss Jim Smith said talks were underway.

The players agent Steve Kutner has stated that Merson wants to leave Villa Park. "Paul Merson has one-year left on his contract at Aston Villa and, unless he is told by the club that they no longer want him, he will see out his contract".

Kutner added: "Paul is furious about the comments reportedly made by Graham Taylor in the press. He was asked a good question by a club reporter who he thought would make a good captain for Aston Villa.

His answer (Alpay) was his own personal opinion and not a recommendation.

Expect this story to develop before the season starts.