Jewell keen to keep Ghaly March 26 2008
Derby boss Paul Jewell is willing to sign Hossam Ghaly this summer if the Egypt midfielder continues to shine.
Jewell was impressed by Ghaly's performance in Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Middlesbrough after coming on as a substitute for Robbie Savage just after the hour.
The 26-year-old, who is currently on loan at Pride Park from Tottenham until the end of the season, has made nine appearances for the Rams following his arrival in early January.
With two years remaining on his contract with Spurs, where he appears to no longer have a future, Ghaly would undoubtedly command a fee.
But Jewell said: "I thought he was terrific at Middlesbrough. He's got brilliant feet, a great footballing brain and good technique.
"He's got all the tricks, but sometimes he should use the tricks when he needs to and not all the time.
"When he came on at Middlesbrough. he ran the game. He passed it, did his tricks at the right time, he went past people, created opportunities and got back. He looked a really good player.
"If Hossam plays like that between now and the end of the season we will be looking to try and keep him. We would be silly not to."
Although Jewell has yet to speak to the north Londoners, Ghaly himself may be unwilling to play in the Championship next season as County stand on the brink of relegation from the Premier League.