Newcastle give up on Neill hunt

Newcastle boss Joe Kinnear was thwarted in his bid to sign Australian international Lucas Neill on Thursday after West Ham insisted they were determined to keep the full-back at Upton Park.

The Hammers said they were furious with reports of struggling Newcastle’s interest.

“West Ham would like to make it clear that Lucas Neill is a contracted West Ham United player and that we have received no approach from any club for his services, including Newcastle United,” said a statement on the club website.

“We are astonished by reports that a Premier League manager has claimed contact with one of our players.”

Newcastle said they had ended their interest in pursuing the 30-year-old Australian.

“With regards to Lucas Neill, West Ham United have made it clear he is a player they value as a highly important member of their squad and who they have no desire to sell,” said a spokesman.

“Newcastle United respect West Ham’s position and will therefore not be pursing this matter.”

Kinnear admitted that he had enquired about the 30-year-old Neill to replace Habib Beye who has been ruled out until March with an ankle injury.