July 28 2003

Julian Gray

Charlton boss Alan Curbishley wants to give Julian Gray another trial match to decide if he's worth buying.

Gray, 23, played in Charlton's 2-1 friendly win against Peterborough on Saturday and Curbishley wants another look before he parts with his money.

The left-winger had a trial game with Leeds on Friday and rushed down to London on Saturday after the Yorkshire-side would not pay Palace's asking price.

Curbishley said: "To meet us at 12 o'clock and then play for us isn't that easy and obviously to play two games in 24 hours is very tough, especially at this stage of the season.

"He's got certain aspects to his game that we are looking for - he's a natural left-footer, he plays higher up the pitch and he's young and I think he showed touches of his ability.

"I'll have to have a think about it; if we can pursue it, if we can have a look at him again, but obviously that will depend on Crystal Palace as well.

"We know what sort of fee Palace would be looking for, but that's not necessarily what we would consider offering."