Europe’s not why I quit – Midgley

Dec 28 2007 The Journal

NEWCASTLE Eagles defector Richard Midgley has insisted his shock mid-season transfer to the Everton Tigers was not a stepping stone to European basketball.

This evening Midgley comes face-to-face with Eagles’ play-caller Fabulous Flournoy for the first time since his untimely departure a fortnight ago in a red-hot BBL Trophy clash.

But the Great Britain star has quashed speculation his move into the Tigers’ ranks was simply a ploy to ply his trade on the continent.

“It’s nonsense to say that I’m playing in Everton only to get into the European leagues,” said the point guard.

“I came here to help Everton move up the table and that’s what I plan on doing. It’s going really well here and I’m enjoying playing my basketball.

“This Everton team is full of potential. I’m not saying that we are as good as the Eagles yet, but I can see us being as good as them in the future.

“The difference between the two teams is that the Eagles have a few players who have experience and know the system, but we are brand new.”

Midgley left Newcastle amid rumours suggesting roster unrest and friction with Eagles boss Flournoy – but he maintains there is no animosity.

And the California graduate is certain when the two teams meet this evening there will be no fireworks.

“I don’t think it will be too fiery, because we will be approaching the game like it is any other,” said Midgley. “We will be trying our hardest to win but there is no extra edge to the game.

“I’m not going to make a prediction on the outcome of the game, but it’s going to be tough. I think we can be competitive and go for the win, but it will be hard because they have a lot of excellent players.

“Charles Smith is playing really well, and Olu (Babalola) is pretty much unstoppable when he gets going.

“Lynard Stewart is probably their most consistent player, and Darius Defoe and Andrew Bridge can also play out a ball game.

“But with all that being said, we won’t focus on any one guy.”

BBL veteran Flournoy may have to sit out the contest as he struggles to shake off the groin strain that cut short his involvement in last week’s win over Birmingham Panthers.

But the Eagles will be buoyed by news the career of long-shot specialist Jeremy Hyatt remains intact despite the knee injury that has plagued his season.

The point guard underwent an MRI scan last week and reports show the injury is not as serious as was previously suspected. Meanwhile Eagles chairman Paul Blake has confirmed the franchise are in talks with a number of high-profile players – and are likely to secure a signature this weekend.

The Tynesiders have sought a replacement for Midgley and the shortlist is likely to be dwindled to just one by Monday. Blake said: “We are likely to complete a deal by the close of the weekend.

“They won’t be eligible for our next game, but will most likely be able to play in the Scottish Rocks game on the January 4.”

Heading the candidates are former Scottish Rocks star Ted Berry, ex-Doukas player Bryan Defares and BBL veteran Danny Lewis.