Brian Clough was ready to go for Middlesborough’s transfer-listed striker Bernie Slaven – but a late change in the process by Lennie Lawrence had thrown his plans in jeopardy. Boro boss Lawrence had sent a circular out stating that 32-year-old Slaven was available on a free transfer – but only to clubs outside the premier league. Top clubs would have to pay a transfer fee.
Clough had been desperate to sign a striker since selling Teddy Sheringham and he was ready to challenge the likes of West Brom, Wolves, Hearts, Port Vale, Motherwell and Bolton for Slaven. Ironically Forest was set to meet Boro in the fourth round of the FA cup later that month.
