Wolves target Andy Webster to shore up leaky defence

Published on Friday 11 January 2013 00:00

WOLVES have been linked with a move for Hearts defender Andy Webster.

The Championship club have struggled defensively this season, leaking 38 goals in 26 games, and new manager Dean Saunders is eager to strengthen a rearguard that also includes former Hearts central defender Christophe Berra.

Webster is another of Hearts’ first-team squad whose current deal is due to expire at the end of the season and a decent offer during this month’s transfer window could prove too hard for the cash-strapped Tynecastle club to turn down.

The 30-year-old returned to Hearts two years ago and has forced his way back into the Scotland reckoning with a string of impressive displays for the club he left in controversial circumstances in 2006.

Meanwhile, Ryan McGowan flew back to China yesterday after completing his switch from Hearts to Shandong Luneng Taishan. The 23-year-old, who turned down a transfer to Rangers in August and was out of contract at Tynecastle in the summer, yesterday described the move as a “new adventure” as he left for what is believed to be a two-year deal.

The Australian international’s transfer is thought to have earned Hearts a desperately needed £400,000 and he was full of praise for the club he joined from Australia in 2006.

“That’s me off for a new adventure,” he tweeted. “I’ve had an amazing six and a half years, with memories and people I’ll never forget. I’ve loved every minute. To everyone involved at Heart of Midlothian Football Club, from the kit man to club staff, thank you for everything you have done for me.”

Taken from the Scotsman