On Thursday morning, following talks with Ajax, the Club can confirm that it has ceased negotiations for the release of Martin Jol from his contract with the Dutch Club.
Although Fulham had agreed personal terms with Martin Jol, Ajax were not willing to allow him to leave under any circumstances, and have held him to the terms of the contract he signed last summer.
When Fulham commenced negotiations with Martin Jol, the Club was informed that an exit clause existed in his contract with Ajax. Subsequent negotiations revealed that the clause was no longer valid and Ajax position remained steadfast in their desire to keep their manager, therefore dialogue between the two clubs has now ended.
Since Roy Hodgson indicated that he wanted to leave Fulham, a short list of potential managers was identified, and the Club is committed to ensuring that the right candidate is brought on board to continue the Club’s progress, in the soonest timeframe possible. The Chairman and CEO would also like to personally thank Ajax for their conduct throughout this very public process.
Ray Lewington will remain in charge of all First Team matters as caretaker manager and the Club would like to thank Ray, his backroom staff and all the players for their patience and professionalism ahead of the 2010/11 Barclays Premier League season.