CHRIS LAKEY Canaries target David Strihavka has vowed not to put himself on trial after what he describes as an "unpleasant experience" with former City youth coach Adrian Boothroyd at Watford.

CHRIS LAKEY

Canaries target David Strihavka has vowed not to put himself on trial after what he describes as an "unpleasant experience" with former City youth coach Adrian Boothroyd at Watford.

The 6ft 3in Czech is believed to have been in Norwich yesterday for talks and, if necessary, to undergo a medical before completing a move from Banik Ostrava.

But the 24-year-old is keen to avoid a repeat of his experience with Watford in January when he spent four days with the then Premiership club, only to be told he was not wanted.

"I think they did not help me," said Strihhavka. "A lot of people asked me why it had not turned out well - it was unpleasant. Afterwards, it was clear that the coach rather counted on other players than me as it was not certain if I would stay or not at Banik."

Strihavka says he hopes to avoid similar problems during his negotiations with City.

"I would never go again for a trial," he said. "If you want me then we should sit down and discuss details of the possible contract. Only then can we close a deal.

"This is how it should proceed at Norwich. In any case, I could fly anywhere with my football boots and prove that I can play football. I think I am in a different position, I have already proved that I can score goals. Trials are for players who are fighting for their chance."

Strihavka scored 13 goals in the Czech League last season and Canaries boss Peter Grant is believed to be willing to pay around £700,000 for his services.

"The Championship is something different than the Czech League - you play at sold-out stadiums which is the top thing for every player," he added. "Every player wants to move abroad, to learn new cultures and gain experience.

"I'm not forcing the issue, though. If it does not turn out well, then I will continue to fight for my chance at Banik."

Should Strahavka become Grant's sixth signing of the summer, his physical attributes would certainly provide competition for Dion Dublin and Chris Brown - and give another new-boy, Jamie Cureton, the sort of strike partner he loves playing alongside.

"It has always suited me throughout my career playing with a target man," said Cureton, whose partnership with 6ft 4in Chris Iwelumo produced 41 Championship goals for Colchester last season.

"Every time I have done well it has always been with a big guy. The boss said he needed the squad to be right before he brought someone like me in. He obviously has Dion as well, I was very impressed with him when we played them both times last season - he is still a very, very good player.

"I think he feels now he has the right people around I can fit in with and a big man would suit me - the manager knows that and is obviously going to bring the right people in to suit everyone."