ANTTI NIEMI is determined to sort out his contract problems - and make himself available for Saturday's Championship opener against Wolves.
The goalkeeper is expected to today return to training and then meet with chairman Rupert Lowe in a bid to resolve a dispute that led to him missing last Saturday's match against Anderlecht and training earlier in the week.
Niemi has stressed that the problem is a private matter which relates to a point of principle and NOT the 50 per cent wage-cut that most of the squad suffered following relegation.
The Finn, below, has informed manager Harry Redknapp of his need to take some time off and strongly refutes the suggestion that he is on strike or seeking a transfer.
Niemi's agent Richard Cody said the player would be available for selection against Wolves.
He said: "It is nonsense to suggest he is on strike. We do have some grievances of his contract, but it has nothing to do with the club being relegated - in point of fact Antti agrees that any player should take a pay-cut if you are relegated."
Fulham have been linked with a move for Niemi and summer signing Jaro Drobny is set to undergo minor knee surgery on an injury sustained during the pre-season trip to the USA.
He is expected to miss anywhere between three and six weeks, and that could land Fulham with a goalkeeping crisis after Mark Crossley also picked up a knock in the US.
Drobny said: "Fulham will start looking for a goalkeeper, but I think it will be someone on loan."
SAINTS were due to find out today if their application for a work permit for new striker Ricardo Fuller is successful.
The former Pompey striker had to apply for a new permit after failing to play in the required number of international matches for Jamaica.
A spokesman for Fuller last week said the application was "a formality".
Harry Redknapp was due to attend the hearing, forcing him to postpone a planned press conference.
Saints - The Big kick-off and Hoddle interview inside tonight's Daily Echo
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article