Football: Lombardo 'staying at Palace'

MARK GOLDBERG, Crystal Palace's new chairman, has assured the club's supporters that last season's player-manager, Attilio Lombardo, will be staying at Selhurst Park.

Goldberg took over at Palace two weeks ago from Ron Noades and is working with the new manager, Terry Venables, to build a team capable of challenging for an immediate return to the Premiership.

"I am convinced Attilio has his mind focused on Palace and not on alternative places of work," Goldberg said. "Attilio will lead us along the way for the next season, at least."

He also said he was convinced that, despite attractive offers from two Premiership clubs, Matt Jansen would also be staying at Selhurst Park.

Everton shareholders are forcing an emergency general meeting to put pressure on the club's chairman, Peter Johnson, to clarify Howard Kendall's position as manager before the players return for pre-season training in two weeks' time.

Charlton have signed the striker Andy Hunt on a free transfer from West Bromwich Albion a day after buying Chris Powell. Derby have secured Stefan Schnoor, a German defender, as Powell's replacement.