West Ham hint at Andy Johnson

Manager Iain Dowie has lashed out at West Ham United for public comments related to Crystal Palace striker Andy Johnson.

Alan Pardew, who has since apologized, admitted he wanted the England international in an interview earlier in the week. West Ham, in a solid 9th spot in the Premiership, looks almost certain to survive and is thinking ahead.

But Ian Dowie has other ideas.

"I would never say I was interested in a player if I hadn't spoken to his manager. But AJ won't be leaving during the transfer window.”-Dowie

Just like during the summer transfer window, Ian Dowie insists Andy Johnson is not for sale. After signing a new 5 year deal at Selhurst Park he committed his future to the club.

Unfortunately Andy Johnson has been hampered by a knee injury and has only played 11 times so far this season. Whatever the contract and Ian Dowie says, without a promotion back into the Premiership, there will be very little chance of keeping the player around.

Currently Crystal Palace sit in 8th spot in the Championship 23 miles behind leaders Reading on 53, and 19 behind Sheffield United. Both leaders are 10 points clear of Leeds United in third on 39 points. A good run of form could win promotion for Palace again, but let’s face it, on 31 points it’s a hill to climb.