Grimsby Chairman Says Board Backs Lennie!

By: Bill Osborne
Date: 01/11/2001

GRIMSBY TOWN chairman Peter Furneaux spoke out today about the rumours concerning manager Lennie Lawrence's future and speculation that Barnsley are looking to make a bid for him.

Mr Furneaux has also dimissed rumours that Lennie was to get the sack. "We've had no reason to discuss Lennie's future at this stage, but obviously we are concerned about what's happening." He told the Grimsby Telegraph.

"We haven't discussed it and we've backed him with, this year, £837,000. That's what he's had for increasing contracts and bringing in players and getting the players he wants on loan.

"I don't know anything about the Barnsley connection. I know John Dennis quite well and he's not contacted me. I know nothing about it whatsoever.

"I'm pleased people have the confidence to link him with the job."

Lawrence himself said: "There's been no official approach. Last week there was talk about Birmingham and you're going to get linked with these things, there's so many jobs changing hands there's bound to be speculation. I'm flattered to be linked with it but I'm getting on with the job here."

The GET report stated: Lawrence knows that he must turn things around fast if he is to avoid becoming the 22nd manager to lose his job in the country this season.

Lawrence also said: "I don't feel the pressure personally but I am concerned for the club. It's a difficult time and the fans are bound to be getting restless. It's not personal pressure, I've gone past that, it's a concern for the club. It's a difficult job and this club badly needs to stay in this division. I carry the responsibility for that and there's nobody else to do it, it's as simple as that.

"I've been through this before but am I feeling it personally? No."

"Am I concerned for the club and the team? Yes."

With the board giving their backing to Lennie it remains to be seen if that situation continues if a turnaround in results does not eventuate. Only time will tell.

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