August 11 2004

Crystal Palace

Southampton defender Fitz Hall is discussing terms with former boss IAIN DOWIE about a move to Crystal Palace.

DOWIE has been chasing Hall over the summer and is keen to be reunited with him after the pair worked together at Oldham.

Saints chairman Rupert Lowe is reluctant to see him go but said he wouldn't stand in his way if he was not totally commited to the Saints.

He said: "At Fitz's request we have given Crystal Palace permission to speak to him but any move will of course be subject to a medical and the two parties agreeing personal terms.

"Obviously we would like to keep him as part of our squad but as a club we have always subscribed to the view that we only want players who want to be here.

"I think the chance to link up with IAIN DOWIE again was a big factor for Fitz and the talks will probably reach their conclusion in the next couple of days.

"It may be a blow to lose Fitz but people need not worry about whether he will have a successor. We have somebody in mind and if the need arises we would expect to replace him within the next week or so."