Jol turns down Fulham job

22 July 2010 10:32

Ajax boss Martin Jol has confirmed he will stay at the Amsterdam club despite interest from Fulham.

Reports in England had continued to suggest the former Spurs boss had his heart set on a return to London but the vibe from Amsterdam always maintained he would stay providing the club freed up funds for him to strengthen the squad this summer.

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And Jol sought to clarify the situation on Friday morning by telling Ajax's official website: "Ajax let me know they didn't want me to go. And I don't think I can bring myself to leave Ajax at this time."

He added: "I came here last summer to be successful, to build a good team and to have fun. And those three things are what I am interested in achieving next season."

Jol added in De Telegraaf newspaper: "It was always my intention to build Ajax further. It is full speed ahead and we all need to roll up our sleeves. That is essential."

Ajax chief executive Rik van den Boog curtailed his holiday to discuss the issue with Jol and managed to persuade him his future should remain at Ajax.

Van den Boog was mystified how the speculation over Jol's future escalated to the extent it did.

He told the Algemeen Dagblad newspaper: "I find the publicity almost laughable and I have wondered 'what is this about?'. On the other hand, I understand it. It is Ajax.

"There was a club that wanted our coach. And they approached him at a time when he didn't have a lot of confidence in the squad. The coach answered questions about it and was flattered by the attention - that I understand."

"But it's impossible (for Jol to go to Fulham). He is under contract with us and his relationship with the club is good."

Source: PA