Saints dismiss Pardew exit talk

Last updated : 13 May 2010 By BBC Sport

Cortese told the Saints website: "There has been much speculation about the position of Alan Pardew.

"This speculation could be interpreted as a deliberate attempt to unsettle both the club and Alan. Without exception it has been ill-informed."

Cortese added: "In addition to this, various figures with past associations to the club have been quick to voice their opinions.

The Premier League remains our stated and primary objective. We are also committed to developing a style of play that is compelling to watch - a style that will ultimately become known as the 'Southampton style'

Nicola Cortese

"These commentators are each entitled to their opinions, however I must tell them that running a major football club such as Southampton is a rather different matter from writing about doing so.

"One of my early actions was to eradicate the politics that had cast a shadow over Southampton for so long, however it seems that those same people are trying to continue behind the scenes.

"I can assure the supporters that I will not be influenced or driven by people who seek to harm the club in pursuit of personal agendas."

The Saints faced an uncertain future after their relegation from the Championship last season but were bought by Markus Liebherr in July.

Pardew was appointed manager nine days after the takeover, with Cortese arriving at St Mary's in August.

As a result of their financial difficulties the Saints began this season with a 10-point penalty and ended the campaign in seventh place, seven points off the play-off places.

In March, they won the Johnstone's Paint Trophy, beating Carlisle United 4-1 in the final at Wembley.

"The pace over the positive change over the last 10 months has been impressive," said Cortese.

I am so happy right now! Cortese's statement filled me with so much hope for the new season and these are great times for the club

jaysfc07

"Missing out on the play-offs was obviously disappointing despite the 10-point deduction. Nevertheless, we made good progress in the second half of the season.

"I have completed a thorough review of the first team with Alan and we are clear and agreed on our plans and objectives for the coming season.

"The Premier League remains our stated and primary objective. We are also committed to developing a style of play that is compelling to watch - a style that will ultimately become known as the 'Southampton style'.

"Both Alan and I share these objectives and targets. Although getting the football side right is a serious business, Alan and I have a lot of fun doing it and we are developing a mutual trust."

Pardew has been linked with a number of managerial vacancies, including that at Celtic, but last week insisted that he wants to stay with the Saints.

He told BBC Radio Solent: "I want to stay at Southampton. I just hope we get an opportunity to build again.

"The fans have taken to me, and the team have been excellent."

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport