Chief says Pardew will not be axed

Charlton chairman Richard Murray insists manager Alan Pardew continues to have his full backing despite the club's struggle to make the play-offs.

Pardew's side are languishing in 11th, four points adrift of the top six with five games to go but Murray is confident the former West Ham boss will come good.

"There is no question that Alan is the right man for the job," said Murray.

"We have not given up hope of getting up this season, but if it doesn't happen we will not panic. Alan has a lot of experience and together we will get it right."

Meanwhile, the administrator of League Two Rotherham has revealed that eight consortia have expressed an interest in taking over the cash-strapped club. The deadline for bids is a week tomorrow.