July 15 2002

Crystal Palace

Birmingham City's Andrew Johnson said he would seriously consider a move to Palace as part of a deal sending Clinton Morrison the other way.

Steve Bruce will attempt to step up his efforts to sign Morrison this week and reports suggest that he may use Johnson and Tommy Mooney as bargaining power, knowing Trevor Francis rates the pair highly.

Johnson said: "If the gaffer is looking to sign a new striker and my name is being thrown in with a view to a part-exchange then I shouldn't think I'd have a major part to play next season."

"Although it is everyone's aim to play in the Premiership, I need regular first team football and that means I will look at any options which come my way.

"I'm 22 now and I don't want to be stuck in the reserves for another two years, which is how long I have left on my contract.

"If Birmingham and Palace come to an arrangement then I would seriously consider signing for them.

"I'd have to make sure any move was right for me, I wouldn't expect to be just palmed off. But if this Palace thing materialises then I'd definitely be interested."