Oxford Hunt City Pair

Last updated : 12 June 2002 By Andy Beill
The U's are looking to sign defenders Mike Edwards and Mark Greaves according to reports.

Neither player is assured of a place in Jan Molby's new look team, and the Tigers boss has said that if an offer came in for almost anyone in his squad he would definitely be interested in talking.

The two local-born players are our longest serving players behind Neil Mann.

Mark Greaves was snapped up by Terry Dolan on a free transfer from Brigg Town six years ago. After an unconvincing start to his City career he blossomed under Warren Joyce, becoming a rock in the City defence. Since Brian Little's appointment he was moved to central midfield where he has also been a commanding figure, but may be interested in a move to Oxford where he could be guaranteed of a starting place in his natural position of centre back. The 27-year-old has scored 12 goals in just over 200 games for City.

Mike Edwards made his debut at the age of 17 after coming through the youth system, playing in a thrilling 5-4 defeat at Rotherham in December 1997. Since then he has made over 200 appearances in a number of positions, scoring 8 goals. He operated mainly in his favoured centre back position until Brian Little's appointment, when he was shifted to wing-back and then full-back. Being played out of position has not helped him, and he has had to endure more than his fair share of abuse from the terraces. However, he has overcome these difficulties to become one of City's most consistent performers, and his effort and professionalism has never been doubted.

Both players still have two years to run on their contracts, so City may demand a transfer fee.

Meanwhile, rumours say that Justin Whittle's future is also uncertain. The 31-year-old, who has skippered City for the last three years, has alledgedly been told by Jan Molby that he will be allowed to move on to another club after the signings of Greg Strong and John Anderson.

Hull City are not commenting on these stories as manager Jan Molby is still at the World Cup for Danish television.