Okocha Going Nowhere

Last updated : 15 August 2005 By Matt Bottom

Luis Fernandez claims Qatari club Al-Rayyan are close to signing Bolton Wanderers captain Jay-Jay-Okocha but these reports have been denied by Bolton Chairman Phil Gartside.  

Okocha was left on the substitutes' bench for Bolton's opening game of the season against Aston Villa at the weekend and speaking on French television programme Telefoot, Fernandez announced that Al-Rayyan are close to reaching a deal for Okocha.
 
Bolton Chairman Phil Gartside told the club's official website, "Jay-Jay is a vital asset to our football club and we have not received any offers for him whatsoever."

"He's the captain and one of our most important players.

"He's under contract to this football club and there's no way we would want him to leave, especially with the season only just commencing. Also, we will be investigating the possibility of an illegal approach."