CHRIS LAKEY Linnets striker Michael Frew is waiting until he knows the identity of the club's new manager before committing himself to the FA Cup hopefuls.The two parties have been in talks for several weeks, but the club announced yesterday that Frew would not be committing himself - although they insist there is nothing sinister in the player's decision.

CHRIS LAKEY

Linnets striker Michael Frew is waiting until he knows the identity of the club's new manager before committing himself to the FA Cup hopefuls.

The two parties have been in talks for several weeks, but the club announced yesterday that Frew would not be committing himself - although they insist there is nothing sinister in the player's decision.

“There is nothing sinister in it - he's just waiting to see who the new manager will be,” said club spokesman Mark Hearle. “He's told us he is perfectly happy at King's Lynn and perfectly happy with the arrangement he has with us now. When we announce who the new manager is he will review his situation and we will go back and speak to him.”

Joint caretaker manager Shaun Carey said Frew's decision would not compromise his position within the team.

“Not at all,” said Carey. “It is not a concern at all because I think Michael is enjoying his football.

“I took over for the Bishops Stortford game and he was excellent for us that day, as he was against Banbury, and his performance on Saturday was excellent as well.

“I think he is happy at the moment because he's playing his best football. But the way things are you can understand his reasoning.”

Carey has had three games in charge alongside fellow caretaker boss Dean West, the FA Cup first round win over Stortford followed by a Southern League Premier Division draw at Banbury and Saturday's 2-0 home cruise past Cirencester a sequence of results that have served to confirm his desire to take over the hot-seat.

The former Canaries midfielder spoke to chairman Ken Bobbins about the managerial vacancy on Monday.

“I have made him aware that I feel really comfortable and happy with what we are doing,” said Carey, whose playing career is on hold because of a double leg break.

“It doesn't faze me and I am not scared to make decisions regarding the team.

“The chairman is aware of that and the club will do what is right, but I have been so pleased with the players' response and their work-rate, which has been first class for the three games we have been in charge. I can't ask for any more of the players.

“I am not the sort of person who would have jumped in as soon as Tommy left and say 'give me the job'. I just wanted to get the players right for the FA Cup game, which was a great performance, and then prepare for the next matches.

“I have been very pleased with the way it has gone and I would certainly be interested in doing the job.”

t The Linnets still have terrace tickets available for their FA Cup second round tie at home to Oldham Athletic on December 1, priced £10 and £5 for concessions. Tickets are available from the commercial office at The Walks, between 9am and 5pm - call 01553 760060.