BID FOR ROWLANDS IS REJECTED
Wigan Athletic manager Paul Jewell has had a bid for Queens Park Rangers midfielder rejected by their chairman Gianni Paladini. He is anxious that the club do not sell their best players in January, due to their precarious position in the Championship. The Loftus Road outfit are currently occupying twentieth place in the league, just four points clear of the relegation trap door. Losing a player of Rowland's ability could have disastrous consequences and that is the view endorsed by club manager, John Gregory.
Just what Latics' bid for the Hoops' star player was is unclear and it is not known whether or not Latics will pursue the 28 year old midfielder further. Martin started his career at Farnborough Town before being snapped up by Brentford for a fee of £45.000 in August 1998. His stay at Griffin Park encompassed 128+21 league appearances, during which he netted 20 times. He arrived at Loftus Road on a free transfer in July 2003 and to date has made 100+9 league appearances, scoring 21 league goals.
It is believed the player would relish the chance of Premiership football, but a lot may hinge on the outcome of Latics' current pursuit of Fulham's Papa Bouba Diop.
