Pardew resignation is rejected

West Ham's bid to lure Alan Pardew to Upton Park descended into bitter acrimony today when Reading rejected his resignation.

The 42-year-old is furious at being denied the chance to talk to West Ham and quit the Berkshire club after showdown talks with Reading chairman John Madejski this morning.

Madejski refused to accept his resignation, but the move is still likely to spark a major compensation battle between the two clubs with Reading looking for up to £500,000.

Pardew, the No1 choice to succeed Glenn Roeder has also told the club he will stay away from Saturday's clash between the sides at Upton Park.

The former Crystal Palace midfielder said: "My main issue has always been the opportunity to speak to West Ham which has been denied to me. Given the forthcoming fixture on Saturday, I will be taking time away with my family over the weekend to consider my future outside of Reading.

"I would like to thank the players for all the effort they have given me and I am sure they will have continued success at the club."

A Reading spokesman said: "Alan Pardew has offered his resignation as manager of Reading Football Club but that resignation has been rejected."

Before today Madejski had already rejected two official approaches from West Ham and made it clear he does not want Pardew to leave.

But his refusal to sanction the move may damage the club's hopes of a substantial compensation payment from West Ham.

Before today's meeting, Madejski said: "I won't give my blessing for him to talk to West Ham.

"I can understand him being interested, but we have a contract so it's just not possible.

"I don't see any reason why Alan Pardew won't honour his contract."

Pardew, the former Crystal Palace midfielder, agreed a new contract with Reading last March which does not expire until June 2006.

His backroom staff, including assistant manager Kevin Dillon and academy director Nicky Hammond, were also signed on long-term deals as Reading hoped to build their future around Pardew.

At West Ham he can hope for a huge increase in salary - to around £300,000 a year - along with a sizeable bonus should he restore the club to the Premiership at the first attempt.

Trevor Brooking will continue in his role as caretaker manager for Saturday's match.

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