NORWICH CITY HAVE rejected the resignation of Paul Lambert, despite the manager currently being in talks with Aston Villa.
Lambert has opened discussions with the officials of Aston Villa and with Lambert keen to push through the deal he has offered his resignation which has subsequently been swiftly rejected by the club.
Lambert has guided the Norfolk club from League 1 to a 12th-place finish in the Premier League season since moving to the club from Colchester three seasons ago.
“The Club regrets to confirm that Paul Lambert has offered his resignation from his position as Norwich City Manager,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“We have fought hard to keep Paul at Norwich City and have not accepted his resignation whilst discussions with another club are taking place.
“However, whatever happens, we want to place on record our sincere gratitude for everything Paul has done for the Club over the last three fantastic seasons.
“When Paul joined us in August 2009 we were in 66th position in the English football pyramid and the Club was on the brink of financial meltdown.
“Today we are a Barclays Premier League football club, on a financially sound footing and with a stadium full to capacity.
“Discussions with Paul throughout the last few days have been professional and amicable. Paul has already earned his place in Norwich City Football Club history and, no matter what happens, will always have a friendly welcome at Carrow Road.
“Meanwhile, contrary to some media speculation, the Club does not need to sell any players and the finances are in place to substantially strengthen the excellent squad which helped us finish in 12th position in the Premier League last season.
“Rest assured that everyone behind the scenes at Carrow Road remains absolutely focused on continuing to help the Club progress.”
Lambert had previously stated he was happy in his current role after being linked with replacing Alex McLeish at Villa Park earlier in May, though after the club firmed up their interest with a formal approach he now looks set to depart Carrow Road.
The 42-year-old previously managed Livingston, Wycombe and Colchester before replacing Bryan Gunn at Norwich in August 2009.
