BOSNAR TRIAL

Tuesday 13 July 2004, 10:00

Everton boss David Moyes has offered a short trial to centre-half Eddy Bosnar during the Blues' week-long stay in Austria.

The 24-year-old is currently under contract at Austrian side Sturm Graz, though it is believed they will allow him leave on a free transfer as they attempt to reduce the wage bill at the club.

Bosnar, who has been with the Graz outfit since 2001, will train with the Blues for the remainder of the week as the management team consider whether or not to step up their interest.

"This is an opportunity for us to have a look at the player," said Assistant boss Alan Irvine. "He is still contracted to Sturm Graz but we have been given permission to look at him.

"He is a big tall centre-half and a bit ahead of our lads in terms of his fitness because Sturm Graz returned to training earlier than us."

If the Australian Bosnar impresses during Everton's week-long stay in Austria then he could be invited back to Bellefield for an extended trial, however, Irvine has stressed that there is little chance of an imminent signing.

"It is hard to judge him this week alone because a lot of the work we are doing is geared towards fitness and small sided games," he said.

"He is mixing well with the players but what will come of it time will tell. It was an opportunity that was presented to us and was well worth taking.

"The only decision that will be made at the end of this week will be a negative one if we feel there is no need to have a look at him. There is certainly no prospect of an imminent signing."