Hands off Jenas, warns Souness

NEWCASTLE boss Graeme Souness has warned potential suitors to England midfielder Jermaine Jenas they are wasting their time.

The 22-year-old is on international duty in America with Sven-Goran Eriksson's squad amid speculation at home that Arsenal and Tottenham are monitoring his situation with Souness preparing a clear-out.

However, the Scot, himself on holiday in the US, has issued a hands-off message. "JJ's an important member of the squad," he said. "I made him captain last year and that shows what I think of him."

The manager will attempt to offload several of his midfielders Hugo Viana is wanted by Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Benfica, while Laurent Robert is reportedly attracting interest from Toulouse and the futures of Lee Bowyer and Nicky Butt are uncertain.

The Magpies continue to be linked with Chelsea's Scott Parker, but having poured cold water on suggestions that Jenas could be used in a swap deal to land Spurs striker Robbie Keane, Souness wants him to play a key role at St James' Park once again next season.