More Danes on the Way/Stacey Signs Up

By: Paul Holmes
Date: 13/06/2001

MARINERS boss Lennie Lawrence has denied reports that he is interested in Danish striker Claus Nielsen. However Lawrence did admit to keeping a close eye on a few young Danes, a situation which is helped by the Grimsby manager's close personal relationship with Copenhagen manager, Roy Hodgson.

Speaking to Planetfootball.com, Lawrence revealed that Claus Nielsen was not a target as the 23-year-old was unfortunately forced to retire in January of this year following an unsuccessful attempt at triple surgery on a persistent back problem.

"...We do have an interest in a few young Danish players including one or two of Copenhagen's..."

Lawrence continued: "I went over to watch a game a couple of weeks ago and we do have an interest in a few young Danish players including one or two of Copenhagen's. Obviously we're not going to be able to get their first-choice players though, and to be honest it's too early to be naming names."

Suggestions indicate that one of those young players is attacking midfielder Mads Kjøller Westh. The 19-year-old can operate either on the left wing or behind the front two in the 'hole'. Westh is having trouble breaking into the current Danish champions first team and Hodgson is also believed to be keen to loan Westh out in order for him to gain some vital experience - a similar situation to which David Nielsen came to the club in October 2000.

Mads Kjøller Westh Profile