Random news and rumours

Seen up at the Manor today was Denis Smith, now out of hospital, and three potential new players (apparently a left-sided defender, a right back and a striker), unfortunately none of whom was recognised by our source (although QPR’s Steven Slade has allegedly been seen up the Manor). Teamtalk’s latest rumour is that Aberdeen defender Mark Perry is one of Smith’s chosen targets. According to the Aberdeen official website Perry was signed from Dundee United as a centre half but has also played at full back and in midfield.

Former Walsall striker Mark Robins, who has been linked with United (via spurious website rumours such as appear regularly on Rage Online) has signed for Division Two newcomers Rotherham.

Icelandic international striker Stefan Thordarsson, who was briefly on trial at Oxford before the start of last season (he played in a couple of games on the pre-season tour of Scotland) has been signed up by Stoke City.