The Express and Star have confirmed the story we were carrying last Thursday, that one of Merson’s striker targets is, indeed Lee Peacock.

The Sheffield Wednesday player has been out of favour with new manager Paul Sturrock, with only three goals in all competitions this season so far and has been told he is not part of the club’s plans. This is in contrast with the most succesful times in his career, such as his spell at Bristol City, when he scored 54 goals in 144 League games.

The player, who certainly fills the bill of the big target man Merson says he’s after, has been offered an eighteen month contract by the Saddlers, although he has other offers to consider as well.

Murphy Returns To Sunderland

Meanwhile, Joe Murphy will return to Sunderland after Saturday’s game, as his loan period will be at an end. Merson would like to sign the keeper, but there is still no sign of the Black Cats signing a replacement.