The arrival of Marlon Harewood does not spell the end for Jermain Defoe, according to Alan Pardew.

Harewood, who made his West Ham debut in last night's 1-1 draw at bottom club Wimbledon, is the new boss's third acquisition and his second addition up front.

But the manager insists there is no substance to the speculation that this is intended to replace Defoe, who is widely expected to go to a Premiership club during January's transfer window.

"There was always going to be speculation but it is not true," said Pardew.

"Marlon has been brought in because I wanted him to add something.

"It is quite a mouth-watering prospect having him, Jermain and David Connolly in the team. I am excited by that and that is why I brought him here."

With Brian Deane and Richard Garcia also available, plus on-loan Neil Mellor on the way back from injury, there is serious competition up front.

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Published Wednesday November 26, 2003

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