David Cuffley The Canaries were today reported to have had a bid rejected for Leicester City striker Steve Howard. One national newspaper claimed City had a £500,000 offer turned down for Howard, previously linked with a move to Carrow Road this summer.

David Cuffley

The Canaries were today reported to have had a bid rejected for Leicester City striker Steve Howard.

One national newspaper claimed City had a £500,000 offer turned down for Howard, previously linked with a move to Carrow Road this summer.

The 32-year-old was a target for former Norwich boss Nigel Worthington two years ago, but instead moved from Luton to Derby for £1m and helped them win promotion to the Premiership.

He joined Leicester for £1.5m last January but his six goals failed to save them from relegation to League One.

Whether Howard is the “big striker” manager Glenn Roeder hopes to sign in seven to 14 days remains to be seen, but the future of two more experienced forwards mentioned as potential City targets is still undecided.

Bristol City have pulled out of a deal to sign Michael Mifsud from Coventry after Robins boss Gary Johnson revealed he had doubts about the player's commitment.

Johnson agreed a fee of £1.5million for the Malta striker last week but yesterday, he told the club's official website: “I don't think he's right for us. I know people will be shocked by that and this is not me trying to enhance my reputation for interview techniques.

“I can't commit £1.5million of the club's money to people that I don't think can be committed to the club over three years.

“When I talk to people and try to do a deal with them you get to know their weaknesses. Although they might be very good players, in the end if they aren't the right personality for me and the club they'll let you down in the end.”

Roeder admitted during City's tour of Sweden that he was an admirer of 27-year-old Mifsud, but would not confirm reports he had made an inquiry.

Meanwhile, former Tottenham striker Steffen Iversen has hinted he wants to finish his playing career in England.

The 31-year-old, who is now in his second spell with Rosenborg in Norway, has confirmed he would be interested in returning.

“I'll probably finish my career in England,” he said. “I've got an English wife so I'm going to settle here when I retire. So if a good offer comes in then I'm available, although I've got three more years on my contract.”