October 12 2002

Jordan and Francis

Simon Jordan has made it clear that he wishes to keep Trevor Francis as manager of the club, despite cutting back on staff numbers.

Jordan sacked reserve team manager Dave Swindlehurst, and chief scout Barry Simmons on Friday in order to cut costs at the club.

Despite this Jordan will 'stand by his man' and has given Francis the dreaded vote of confidence.

He said: "I'm not happy that we're 17th in the league but I don't think the sensible reaction is to get rid of the manager.

"I've said in no uncertain terms to him I expect to be promoted. I've paid for a Premiership club. I want a Premiership club.

"But I feel we are not too far away and Trevor has made Palace very difficult beat - we are just not scoring enough goals."