Fulham deny Collins John reports

FULHAM may have issued a hands off warning on Collins John but it is only a matter of time before Steed Malbranque leaves Craven Cottage.

The Cottagers yesterday released a statement in response to reports they had accepted a £3m approach from Birmingham for Dutch striker John.

Speculation over John’s impending departure has been vigorously denied with Fulham insisting he remains a key part of the club’s plans.

The Cottagers are resigned to losing Malbranque, however, with Newcastle, Middlesbrough and West Ham in the hunt for the French midfielder.