VAN BUYTEN MOVE DOUBTFUL

Last updated : 03 March 2004 By Ben Collins
Van Buyten's loan spell was only a cost cutting exercise for his club Marseille so he may return to France, and even if they are willing to sell, Keegan feels his performances have been so accomplished that another club will step in.

"He is a terrific player and I don't think we will keep him at the end of the season as I feel he will go to a big club then," said the City boss.

"The deal we have is not tight and other teams are sure to nip in."

Van Buyten explained: "I left l'OM because the club had financial problems but I am only loaned in England.

"The Marseille president has already telephoned me to say he hoped to re-examine me in three months.

"Moreover, if the club had wanted to definitively transfer me to Manchester City, I would not have accepted. Currently, I am simply enjoying the experience."