Neil Pays Tribute

Neil Mellor says he is shocked by the departure of Glenn Roeder from Upton Park - but stresses that it won't affect his thinking about being at West Ham.

Glenn, of course, brought Neil to the club on a year long loan deal this summer, and Neil, when told the news of Glenn leaving, says:

"Glenn was part of the reason that I signed in the first place as well as West Ham being obviously a big club with great traditions - he was keen to get me down and I was more than happy to do so."

He says he had no problems with Glenn about not starting in the last three games, adding:

"He was good with me and got me in his office for a few chats to tell me he was going to work on me all year and put me in the team when the time was right, and who knows when that would have been?

"I am in shock about Glenn's departure and it will take some time to sink in for myself and the other players.

"I am gutted and shocked but now we just have to do it for the boss - and get some results out of respect for him really.

"He is a really nice fellow and I just can't believe he has left now."

He insists, though, he is still fully committed to the Hammers, and adds:

"It does not affect my situation at all; my contract is until the end of the season and I am happy to do the best I can for West Ham.

"Obviously I won't be working for Glenn Roeder but whoever comes in I will look forward to working with the next boss."

Regarding the appointment of Trevor Brooking as boss until a replacement is found, Neil adds:

"Trevor has been there before; he is a big figure in football and obviously he knows West Ham inside out."

He admits, though, that the move was a shock to all the players - as they had seen, and in most cases spoken to, Glenn in training on Sunday.

"I spoke to the boss after training today and he was fine, talking about the Bradford game and hoping to put Rotherham behind us.

"I hope, and I am sure, that he will get a job in football again soon - he is well respected in football and Gerard Houllier certainly thinks a lot of him."

Paul Goddard and Roger Cross both remain to assist Trevor Brooking, who has taken over temporary charge of team affairs.