“

”

Another Derry Delay, Another Reason Wed 24th Nov, 2004 :: by Jan-Eirik As with most things Leeds United, the attempt to sign Shaun Derry is descending into farce. Any minute now Brian Rix will run on stage and his trousers will fall down! (That's one for the middle-aged readers!) First of all he was singing Tuesday morning, then it was reported that Leeds couldn't find the 250K transfer fee that been agreed, then the reason became that he couldn't agree personal terms; by the time he'd agreed personal terms last night it turns out that the clubs didn't have an agreement because Leeds wanted a one month loan deal prior to a permanent signing. Some or all of the above may be true - or NOT! Whether the loan deal is required because Leeds want to be certain before they splash the cash or because they are killing time until they can get investment from the Stubbs consortium is unclear but Palace aren't willing to play ball either way. Nor are they willing to let Derry play ball either so he won't be making the anticipated debut appearance in the Leeds midfield against Watford, tonight at Elland Road What is clear is that from a Leeds United perspective, at least, the deal is not dead. Blackwell was effusive about signing Derry on Monday. However, the Board spokesman, Brian Morris made a bit of a non-statement regarding the transfer, "It could happen in the future if terms are agreed." Oh Really? A little more detail would have been appreciated! Let's hope the next thing we hear is that terms have been agreed, until then Blackwell have to struggle on with existing resources although stories are now going around regarding three European midfielders that Leeds are looking at for the January transfer window. Have your say on our Leeds fans' forum