Soccer: Knights in shape for Premier signings

John Adshead could be on the verge of making his first signings as New Zealand Knights coach as he chases the signatures of two players who have played in the English and Scottish Premier Leagues.

Although he declined to name names, he said one was currently plying his trade in the English first division but had Premier League experience, while another had played two seasons with Dundee in the Scottish Premier League.

"We haven't put pen to paper but I'm very close to signing two experienced players," Adsheadsaid. "I've known about them for some time and we're beginning to talk the same language. We're looking for experience and I'm not making any excuses for that.

Along with his assistant coach Tommy Mason, Adshead has seen videos of one playing against the likes of glamour sides Celtic and Rangers when he was with Dundee three seasons ago.

"We were quite impressed by that," Adshead explained. "He plays off both feet and across the back four but can sit in midfield as well."

The other player in negotiations has appeared in 32 of 35 matches for his club this season, predominantly as a centre back, but he's also played up front.

The Knights already have four on their books - Danny Hay, Noah Hickey, Darren Beazley and Danny Milosevic - and Adshead is also talking to youngsters in Australia and England.

The new A-League has already generated considerable interest. Last week it emerged that Sydney FC were chasing Birmingham and former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke who has indicated an interest in playing abroad. This would be a significant coup for the competition which allows each club to sign one player outside its $1.5m salary cap.

"The message I'm getting is there are a lot of professionals in English football who are quite excited about the development of this league," Adshead said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Districts Knights cricket association has still not ruled out legal action against the Knights soccer club after changing their name last month from the Football Kingz. ND chief executive David Cooper said it was still on the table but had been put on the backburner while the cricket season was still in full swing.