Irish star linked with Fulham move

[sligoman]

Irish international defender Ian Harte could seal a season-long loan move to Premiership side Fulham before Wednesday’s transfer deadline.

Harte is anxious to return to England after 12 months at Levante, who were relegated from La Liga after just one season in the top flight.

Fulham manager Chris Coleman is eager to bring in at least one experienced defender this week, and he is ready to turn to the former Leeds United man after failing in a bid to sign Bobo Balde from Celtic.

Harte spent 12 months in the international doldrums during his sojourn in Spain, but returned with a vengeance for the World Cup qualifiers at the start of the summer, scoring against both Israel and the Faroe Islands.

He retained his place in the squad for the crucial qualifier against France at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday week, by which time he could be a Fulham player.

http://www.eleven-a-side.com/acrossthewater/irish_soccer_detail.asp?newsid=18911

[OwlsFan]

A defender who has been with two sides who were both relegated.

He just doesn't have the pace for a full back. He was brutally exposed at the World Cup. I don't think the possibility that he might score from a free kick makes up for his defensive short comings I'm afraid. Whether he goes to Fulham, Manchester United or Torquay United, this fact won't alas change.

[NeilMcD]

Yes but playing at a higher level will mean he keeps his sharpness up and fitness levels, I think this woudl be a great move for Harte as I believe that Fulham would be his level. I think against weaker opposition he is worth a gamble as he can score a goal from nothing, ala, Israel, but against France etc he will get exposed every time.

[eirebhoy]

eleven-a-side have a habit of calling players "stars". :)