Pirates lead hunt for Pedersen

Friday 15th September 2006, 4:38PM BST.

Controversial Wolves speedway asset Pedersen could be on his way to Poole.

Pirates chief Matt Ford announced his pursuit of a “top rider” for next season.

And Wolves promoter Chris Van Straaten, in an exclusive video interview for the Express & Star, revealed that Poole had declared an interest.

Pedersen, whose clash with Peter Karlsson in June is generally regarded as Monmore’s race of the season to date, is currently on loan at Eastbourne.

“I usually have a talk around this time of year with Nicki to see exactly what he wants and where he wants to be,” said Van Straaten.

“If he is happy to stay at Eastbourne, I haven’t any problem with that.

“If he wants to ride at Wolverhampton, I haven’t any problem with that.

“If he wants to go to Poole – what Nicki wants, Nicki will do.”

Van Straaten expects to talk with the rider at one or more of the forthcoming Craven Shield matches with Eastbourne and Ipswich.

But, asked if there had been contact from Poole, he replied: “There has. But nothing official as yet. Just, when you make a decision on Nicki, bear us in mind.”

Pedersen remains a divisive figure at Monmore.

He butted home rider Ronnie Correy in the KO Cup clash with the Eagles – fined £250 – and followed up by deriding Wolves fans as “bad losers” and “very sad people”. But the competitive Pedersen also has his supporters at Monmore.

Further sections of the interview will be posted next week.

Wolves skipper Peter Karlsson is having physiotherapy to a knee injury in the hope that he can ride against Belle Vue on Monday. His brother Magnus returns after suspension.

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