Wycombe Want Tommy Doherty: Finances a Problem

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Wycombe Official Site: "The Ball's in QPR's Court"
Paul Lambert says he'd love to sign Tommy Doherty but there are still many obstacles to overcome before the Supporters' Player of the Year can become a permanent Blue.

"What's up, Doc?" was the question on the lips of Wanderers fans after hearing that popular midfielder Tommy Doherty had returned to Queens Park Rangers, writes Alan Parry.

"The Doc" became a cult figure during his time on loan at Adams Park and fans want to know if the Northern Ireland international could return to the Blues on a permanent basis.

Manager Paul Lambert told me: "I'd love to have him back - but it's not that simple."

Doherty, part of the Northern Ireland team that sensationally beat England in a European Championship qualifier, was injured towards the end of his loan spell with Wanderers and returned to Q.P.R. for treatment.

"Tommy still has a year to go on his Loftus Road contract" said Paul. "You have to remember that QPR is a Championship club with a much bigger players' budget than our's. He's an international with years of experience, a terrific little player - and that's reflected in his wages."

But the door is far from closed on "The Doc's" return.

Said Lambert: "Tommy absolutely loved being with us and I know that he'd come back tomorrow if it was possible - the ball is in QPR's court.

"There are plenty of other clubs interested in signing Tommy if John Gregory lets him go - and some of those clubs could afford to pay him more money. But it's not all about money with 'The Doc'.

"After all," joked Lambert, "he doesn't exactly spend a fortune on his appearance, does he?"

Signing "The Doc" could be a long and tricky process before any deal is finalised and - like so many of Lambert's transfer targets - the situation can change from day to day. Wycombe