Hayes On The Move

Last updated : 24 January 2007 By Rob Miles (barnsley Boy)

Reds striker Paul Hayes could be set to return home and join relegation rivals Southend United.

Hayes who is originally from Southend was dropped for Saturday's win at Luton because according to Simon Davey, he wasn't in the right frame of mind after Southend lodged a second bid this season for Hayes moments before the two teams lock heads in the FA Cup Third Round replay last week.

Davey however called the figure derisory and insisted Hayes would not be sold on the cheap.

He told www.barnsleyfc.co.uk:

"Southend United came in with an offer for Paul just hours before we were due to play them in the Cup last Tuesday.

"Their actions have unsettled Paul greatly - he is a Southend boy and has made no secret of his desire to move back down South over the last 12-months or so. Paul's mind was not right after they made their bid last week and it was in his best interests that he did not play at Luton.

"There is no way whatsoever that this Club will allow Paul - or any player - to leave unless it is in the best interests of Barnsley FC. Southend's bid was nowhere near our valuation of Paul".

Hayes joined The Reds from Scunthorpe in 2005 for a tribunal set fee which could rise to £150,000 and it is believed the board want more than that if he is to be sold.

Meanwhile Davey has called on the Oakwell faithful as key to keeping Barnsley in the Championship.

The 382 fans who made the long trip to Luton on Saturday were in fine voice and were rewarded with a first away win since August.

Davey said:

"When you are in situations like we are it is difficult and supporters do get frustrated. Our fans at Luton were absolutely magnificent and I cannot thank them enough.

"Every game is a massive one for us. Our supporters will play their part in keeping us in the Championship this season. They did that magnificently at Luton and all I can ask is that they do the same thing at home next week. We want them behind the players and they can be that twelfth man we need".

Update 24/1/07: Barnsley Football Club have today confirmed they have turnd down yet another bid from Southend United for Paul Hayes.


Paul Hayes: Wont be sold cheaply