JACK Walker sent a message of re-assurance to Blackburn Rovers supporters today, telling them: "The only thing that's changed is that I am keener than ever."

Mr Walker insists there are no problems between him and manager Roy Hodgson and that there is money available, with the club "searching all over the world" for new players.

Speaking exclusively to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, Mr Walker was anxious to calm supporters' fears after the manager had expressed his own concerns about the financial situation at Ewood. And Hodgson himself revealed, after Saturday's draw at Barnsley, that he still hoped there would be cash for new players.

According to Mr Walker there is - presumably we'll find out just how much in the coming weeks.

"I have got to tell you there isn't a problem," said Mr Walker. "I have not changed from what I have said from day one in my ambitions for Blackburn Rovers to be playing in Europe and hopefully winning this league - though it will be a tough job.

"There is absolutely no problem between Roy and myself or anyone else. I can't be fairer than that."

When I asked if there was money available for new players, he added: "Nothing has changed, but we have to get the right people. We need a couple of players and we are looking all over the world for them

"The only thing that has changed is I am keener than ever and there is no falling-out situation between the manager and myself." Hodgson, who raised the subject at his Press conference on Friday, also seemed to be more philosophical after Saturday's game.

He said: "We'll see what happens. Hopefully, it's a misunderstanding and hopefully there will be some money available.

"At the moment I am waiting to see what we can do."

"It's a complicated subject. We have got a lot of capital but, unfortunately, you need more than capital to sign players."

In reply to an obvious question, Hodgson also added that he had not had a direct request for transfer money turned down by the club.

Rovers fans were stunned by the manager's initial comments and there were genuine fears among them at the weekend that there could be a serious rift developing.

Mr Walker's words will be welcomed by all the club's supporters but even more welcome would be positive action in the transfer market.

That will demonstrate beyond doubt that Rovers intend to continue to invest - or at the very least re-invest what the manager has raised - and that Hodgson, who has made such a big impression since his arrival, has the 100 per cent backing of the club to bring in the players he wants.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.