Hodgson remains in Etuhu hunt

Black Cats midfielder tempts Cottagers boss

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 28th August 2008

Dickson Etuhu

Etuhu: Attracting interest

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Roy Hodgson is continuing to track Sunderland midfielder Dickson Etuhu as he looks to strengthen his squad.

The Fulham boss had been hoping to land the Nigerian in a swap deal involving David Healy, but failed in his endeavours.

Healy eventually joined the Black Cats in a £2million switch, but Hodgson has refused to concede defeat in his efforts to land Etuhu.

"We are still working on that deal," he said.

"Although we've signed a lot of players this summer we've still got only a 21-man squad really - and we'll lose a lot of that to the internationals next week.

"We've not got players who play for England but so many who go all around the world when these international weeks come up. It takes a lot away from our training and preparation."

Fulham are not in action again until they face Bolton at Craven Cottage on 13th September.

Chopra support

Meanwhile, Sunderland boss Roy Keane has vowed to support Michael Chopra as he 'deals with some personal problems'.

The Daily Mirror reported on Thursday that the striker has checked into the Sporting Chance clinic.

The former Newcastle and Cardiff has made just one appearance for the Black Cats this season, coming on as a late substitute in the season opener against Liverpool, but will be allowed as much time as he requires to resolve his current issues.

Keane said: "We are helping Michael as he deals with some personal issues and he has the full support of everyone at the club.

"We would ask that his privacy, and that of his family, is respected at this time and the club will not be commenting further on this matter."