Blues Move Down To Bridge

Last updated : 16 July 2003 By Rich Godden

England left back Bridge has been targetted by Chelsea, with Celestine Babayaro having a 'mare last season and Graeme Le Saux in the twilight of his career.

An offer of £6 million was reportedly turned down by Southampton last week, but Lowe's comments seem to indicate that an increased bid has been accepted by the Saints.

Speaking in the Daily Echo, Lowe said "If and when anything happens, we will let you know. At the moment, there is nothing to report.

"Ultimately, it will be the player who decides if he wants to go."

Is Bridge worth £7million?? In this day and age, I would normally say no, but with Chelsea being absolutely loaded it seems like a small price to pay for a player who has proven Premiership experience.

And it is worth noting that, unlike Sauxy, Bridge rarely misses a game. If I'm not mistaken, he holds the Premiership record for most consecutive appearances. With Glen Johnson signed up and John Terry already on board, Chelsea are adding some much needed English steel to the defence.