here it is

Pantsil could fly the flag for Norwich
30/06/2006
By Simon Griver
The Ghana defender who caused a stir at the World Cup by waving an Israeli flag during the celebrations of his team?s victory over the Czech Republic could be playing in England next season.

Norwich City are among clubs reportedly interested in John Pantsil, who looks set to leave Hapoel Tel Aviv after his impressive performances in Germany. Other clubs in the frame are Hamburg, Rennes and Belgian champions Anderlecht.

While Pantsil is tight-lipped about his future, his wife is less discreet. Speaking from the family?s Rishon Lezion apartment - from which she has been following the tournament on television - Rachel Pantsil said: ?John loves Israel but he won?t be here at the start of the season. He has had many offers from Europe and wants to take the opportunity to build a successful career there.? Pantsil, 25, joined Maccabi Tel Aviv from Ghana?s Liberty Professionals in 2002. After impressing for Maccabi in the Uefa Champions League group stage in 2004, he moved to cross-city rivals Hapoel early in 2005.

Hapoel have offered him a four-year contract but new manager Itzhak Shum is reconciled to his departure. However, as the player is under contract until next summer, Hapoel will be able to demand a transfer fee.

The defender had promised his Hapoel fans that he would wave the Israeli flag if Ghana scored at the World Cup. But Pantsil was warned against repetition by the Ghanaian FA after protests from the Arab world.

When Ghana defeated the USA 2-1 in their next match to qualify for the last 16, he ran around the pitch waving a Ghana flag.

Pantsil is one of three Israel-based players in the Ghana team - Israel?s only formal interest in the finals. MS Ashdod goalkeeper Sammy Adjei did not make an appearance. Hapoel Kfar Saba defender Emmanuel Pappoe played against Italy in the group stage - and along with Pantsil, in Tuesday?s last 16 defeat to Brazil.

Betar Jerusalem claim to have signed another in-demand World Cup player - Costa Rica?s former Manchester City, West Ham and Derby County striker Paulo Wanchope.

Posted By: highgatecanary, Jun 30, 14:08:45