Archive Article - Mahon Leaves Edgar Street

It's eleven years since Gavin Mahon left Edgar Street. The following article from November 11th 1998, which details the transfer, is based on an article originally published by the Birmingham Post.

Gavin Mahon will next week complete a dream move into the Football League - and ensure cash-strapped Hereford United's immediate survival.

The Bulls and Third Division title-chasers Brentford have agreed a £90,000 deal for the exciting front-runner and, with Brentford concentrating on the FA Cup this week, he is expected to sign after the weekend.

Hereford will receive £50,000 up-front plus another £40,000 based on first team games as well as a share of any sell-on fee.

Director of football Graham Turner had last month been forced to sell Richard Walker to Cheltenham Town to pay imminent debts.

But he stresses that the Mahon deal is not only right financially for the Bulls - but also to further the career of a player he believes can play much higher still.

"From a financial point of view, we need the cash. The money will ease the pressure for the rest of the season," he said.

"But having persuaded Gavin to join us despite competition from Port Vale and Watford we've made it clear we've wanted to help him progress.

"It's important for Hereford that we build a reputation as a club that gives youngsters their chance and provides the platform for them to move.

"Gavin has done that. I wouldn't be surprised if he is at Brentford for a couple of seasons and then moves higher again."

First Division Norwich were said to have been monitoring Mahon, and had wanted to take him for a trial spell.

Mahon had joined Hereford from Wolves after being freed in 1996. After making 12 appearances in his first season, he was an ever-present last term and ended as the supporters' player of the year.


Footnote: Mahon now plays for QPR after moving from Watford who bought him from Brentford for £150,000 in March 2002.

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