Pards: Marlon is going nowhere

Alan Pardew has dismissed stories linking Marlon Harewood with a move away from Upton Park, in an exclusive statement issued through whufc.com

Weekend reports suggested that Marlon was the subject of bids from Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Portsmouth, but the Hammers boss insists that last season's top goalscorer is going absolutely nowhere.

Pards said: "I am not surprised to hear other clubs are interested in Marlon. He had a terrific season last year and was our most improved player. His pace, power and strike rate would be an asset to any club.

"But Marlon is not for sale. The fans love him here and he has become a hero with his many goals, not least of all the winner in our FA Cup semi final win over Middlesborough.

"He is on a long contract with us and, like the rest of the squad, is looking forward to the club's European campaign and improving on our successes of last year."

Exclusive comment from Marlon Harewood to appear on whufc.com shortly...