Norwich: Lambert resignation offer refused refused

Norwich manager Paul Lambert has offered his resignation from the Premier League outfit but club officials have refused to accept it, it was confirmed on Thursday. Norwich said in a statement it would not accept Lambert's resignation whilst "discussions with another club are taking place". Lambert reportedly handed in his resignation late Wednesday after the club rebuffed a request by Aston Villa to open talks with the highly rated Scottish manager. "The club regrets to confirm that Paul Lambert has offered his resignation from his position as Norwich City manager," the Carrow Road club said in a statement. "We have fought hard to keep Paul at Norwich City and have not accepted his resignation whilst discussions with another club are taking place. "However whatever happens we want to place on record our sincere gratitude for everything Paul has done for the Club over the last three fantastic seasons." Lambert oversaw back-to-back promotions with Norwich after taking over in 2009 before steering them to an impressive 12th place finish in their first season back in the top flight. However speculation that the 42-year-old could be on the move this summer has refused to subside, despite Lambert's repeated protestations that he was happy at Carrow Road. Norwich acknowledged the part played by Lambert in the club's resurgence but denied suggestions the club needed to sell players this summer. "When Paul joined us in August 2009 we were in 66th position in the English football pyramid and the Club was on the brink of financial meltdown," Norwich said. "Today we are a Premier League football club on a financially sound footing and with a stadium full to capacity." "Contrary to some media speculation, the club does not need to sell any players and the finances are in place to substantially strengthen the excellent squad which helped us finish in 12th position in the Premier League last season." Isner was on court later on Thursday against Frenchman Paul-Henri Mathieu, aiming to reach the third round at Roland Garros for just the second time in his career.