Ashdown linked with moves away from Reading

By Mark Sugar
May 27 2004

Jamie Ashdown could be set for a move away from Reading after the Reading Evening Post reported Premiership sides Norwich City and Portsmouth were interested in signing the goalkeeper.Ashdown is currently out of contract but has been offered a new deal by Royals Manager Steve Coppell.

Out of contract goalkeepr Jamie Ashdown could be set for a move away from the Madejski Stadium this summer with Premiership sides Norwich City and Portsmouth interested,according to the Reading Evening Post.

Ashdown has been in fantastic form since stepping in back in mid March. First Choice goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann damaged medial ligament's in the 0-0 draw with Stoke City which led to Manager Steve Coppell recalling Ashdown from his season long loan at Rushen and Diamonds.

His performences have been much more impressive then Hahnemann's this season and many fans feel its time for Ashdown to be crowned the Number 1 goalie at the club.

This is quite remarkable considering the fact that a year ago,Ashdown appeared to have no future whatsoever at the club under th Alan Pardew reign.

But now with Coppell at the helm,major changes in defence are the likely agenda.Coppell will definetely attempt to sign a center back in the summer with Crystal Palace player Darren Powell,Brighton and Hove Albion captain Danny Cullip and Luton Town defender Emerson Boyce all linked with the club.

The ball's in Ashdown's court and we just hope and pray Ashdown stays at Reading.