That was the weekend that was: Raging McSporran a goner for the Gunners
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.WITH A name like Jermaine McSporran, the young forward Wycombe Wanderers recently acquired from the Ryman League's Oxford City should never have a problem getting noticed. Yet the 21-year-old, who made his fourth appearance for Wycombe in Saturday's draw at Wigan, seems intent on leaving an indelible and controversial impression.
Touted as a possible target for Arsenal, McSporran had a week's trial at Highbury, scoring for the Gunners reserves, but when the Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, decided not to pursue his interest, McSporran's lashed out - at Oxford chairman Mike Woodley.
Through the columns of the Oxford Mail, McSporran accused Woodley of scuppering his chances with Arsenal, with whom no fee had been discussed, when Wycombe came in with a firm offer to buy.
"He tried to make as much money as he could without considering what would happen to me," McSporran said. But Woodley hit back, insisting that it was Wenger's decision not to take McSporran on. The club had a letter from Wenger, the statement said, explaining that he "did not want to harm his future by not having the chance to play in the first team at Arsenal."
Oxford claimed also to have accepted a reduced fee from Wycombe so that McSporran's personal terms could be met.
When asked to comment, Woodley made his feelings about McSporran clear: "I have no intention of wasting more time in feeding this young man's ego," he said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments