Hello Loovens, Goodbye Gerrard??

During Saturday’s memorable victory over Doncaster, word spread around Cardiff City fans like wildfire that centre-half Anthony Gerrard is heading for the exit door for a season’s loan at League One Sheffield Wednesday with Celtic’s Glen Loovens returning through the entrance on the same deal but there appear to have been no developments so far.

Gerrard’s move remains likely to happen, the player slipping out of the first team picture and rumour would have it, out of Dave Jones’ thoughts too. His only appearance this season in the Carling Cup victory over Burton saw a poor display in which he was at fault for Burton’s goal. However Dave Jones’ mate, Alan Irvine who is boss at Sheffield Wednesday, was playing it down this evening saying, “"I am surprised to hear that one. I would expect that Anthony Gerrard's under contract which would require there to be a fee involved, and we don't have any money."

Loovens’ situation is more intriguing. Cardiff and Celtic have agreed the loan deal leaving it to the player to decide. He also finds himself out of favour with new Celtic boss Neil Lennon bringing in new centre halves. City fans would love to see him back but he is reported to be playing poorly.

However the story has moved on with Loovens preferring to fight for his place and declining City but then promptly being removed from Celtic’s squad as they beat St Mirren 4-0 yesterday with Joe Ledley scoring the opener, his first for The Bhoys. Gossip had it that Loovens stormed away from Parkhead when told of the decision but that’s being played down today with Celtic claiming that he had an injury.

Don’t therefore be surprised to see Loovens back with the Bluebirds, sooner rather than later.