May 13 2001

Rodger - backing Kember

SIMON RODGER is the latest player to back Steve Kember to land the vacant managerial job at Selhurst Park on a permanent basis.

The midfielder's comments follow that of Dougie Freedman and Clinton Morrison earlier this week.

RODGER said: "I've known Steve a long time and was well aware of how good a coach he was when he took over.

"He just told us to go out there and express ourselves and you could tell all the players wanted to do it for him.

"I'd love to see him keep the job and I'm sure if he was appointed manager he would get us up in the top half of the table next season.

"All the lads respect him but he can also be tough and that's what you need from a manager."

Meanwhile, the long-serving midfielder's contract expires this summer, but he is confident of signing a new deal to stay with the club. And there is also the issue of his testimonial to take into consideration.

"I've got a meeting with the club next Tuesday to find out whether the club are going to offer me a new contract," he added.

"I'll be finding out soon if I'll stay a Palace player or if I'm to move on elsewhere.

"That's also going to affect my testimonial: there are a few things still to sort out and it may now have to happen next season because it will be difficut to arrange at this late stage.

"Once the contract is sorted out one way or the other, I will know more about that."