Groves on the New Job

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 29/12/2001

NEW player-manager Paul Groves, speaking on Radio Humberside, explained how he got the job as Town boss and what lies ahead for the Mariners under his new regime. Groves also spoke of his new No. 2 in the Blundell Park hotseat - Graham Rodger.

I got a phone call last night. The board had made the decision with respect to Lennie Lawrence and also with respect to myself and it was a question of whether I would accept the job. I'm surprised that Lennie moved on, and also that I was the next one that they wanted to appoint.

I didn't have to think long. I've stated that it's something that I've wanted to do so there wasn't really much time to think over it.

It's a very difficult task, I'm under no illusions. But it's something that I've wanted to do, that I will attack and that I will give 100% to.

The board have fully backed me in terms of pursuing players. But obviously the finances of the club are extremely limited. We will have to have a look around and see what is available and make our move. We have got players in mind, it's a question of whether they are within our budget and are available.

I think we need a couple of additions at the moment to try and give us a lift but it's no good me saying too much until we can move on things.

Graham Rodger was my decision. I wanted Graham on board. I know Graham very well, I've played with him. We've kept in touch and he's been around the club. Even though he finished his playing days a few years ago, he's very familiar with the players, and he'll bring a number of qualities to the football club.

John [Cockerill] took the decision that he no longer wanted to continue and that's John's decision really, which is disappointing.

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