Saturday, April 22, 2006

Ajax line up Hendrie swoop


Dutch giants Ajax are considering a summer bid for Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie.
The England cap has endured a frustrating season at Villa Park, having failed to secure a regular place in David O'Leary's starting XI.
His situation has sparked talk that he could leave his only club in the summer, as he has just 12 months remaining on his contract.
Reports have suggested that Ajax, who are aiming to qualify for next season's UEFA Champions League, are readying a £500,000 bid for the 28-year-old.
Hendrie has revealed he has an 'interesting' offer for next season, but refused to confirm if Ajax are among his suitors.
"I have had a couple of shouts and one of them is very interesting," Hendrie told the Birmingham Mail.
"But everything is very much up in the air right now."
The skilful midfielder is currently sidelined with a foot injury and he hopes to return before the end of the season, as he does not want to leave Villa without playing for the club again.
He added: "If I am to leave Villa this summer, it would be very hard - almost impossible - to say goodbye without playing again for the club.
"So I am just hoping that all goes well in the next few days. I did a bit of running yesterday, and the foot feels fine."