Reggae Boy on the way?

Last updated : 29 May 2006 By Rick Lamb
National newspaper reports over the weekend have linked Jamaican international stopper Donovan Ricketts with a move to Norwich.

The Times, Mail and Independent went as far as to say that a bid had been accepted by Bradford City for the goalkeeper who was brought to England by Bolton Wanderers boss Sam Allardyce. According to the reports, the 28-year-old could complete a move this week.

Norwich's goalkeeping situation has been brought to national attention after the high profile collapse of England squad member Robert Green in Thursday night's B international with Belarus. Green was scheduled to have a scan on the groin he ruptured taking a goal kick just minutes after replacing David James.

Green, who was expected to be a target for a number of Premiership clubs this summer, now faces several months on the sidelines, while Norwich face the prospect of having to unload the player for a drastically reduced fee in January if they are not to lose him for nothing when his contract expires next summer.

Green's injury leaves only teenager Joe Lewis as a committed alternative between the sticks. Welsh international Darren Ward is out of contract and out of action, while Paul Gallacher, capped by Scotland, is deciding on his future after a late run of games at the end of the season. Gallacher's contract is also due to expire, but his impressive form as a stand-in for Green prompted speculation that he may stay in East Anglia rather than return north of the border.