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Magpies deny Everton striker talk
Everton, 11:00, August 7, 2008 ,
Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan insists Alan Smith was left out of his latest squad due to injury and not because he is joining Everton.
The England international forward has been linked with a switch to Goodison Park 12 months after he arrived on Tyneside from Manchester United, but Keegan says there is no truth in the speculation.
Smith has an ankle problem and was omitted from Wednesday night's friendly with PSV Eindhoven as a precaution, which is in line with Keegan's policy.
"With Alan - he's got a sore ankle," said the St James' Park chief. "I haven't risked anyone in this game and I knew when I left him out it would cause questions, but he's got a sore ankle and I can't treat him any different to anybody else.
"You saw me bringing players off every time they get a knock. I haven't risked anybody, which I think is right and it's given me a chance to give some other people a bit of time."
Having lost Andy Johnson to Fulham, it is clear that David Moyes would like to strengthen his attacking options this month and bids are likely to be forthcoming.