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Hammond snubs Wenger
Last updated at 07:38am on 19.06.07Arsene Wenger was forced to continue his search for a director of football last night after being snubbed by Reading's Nicky Hammond.
Sportsmail can reveal that Hammond, who holds a similar position at the Madejski Stadium, was offered the job on Friday but had a last-minute change of heart and decided to stick with Reading.
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Wenger: Surprised by Hammond's late change of heart
Staying put: Nicky Hammond
Hammond began his career as a goalkeeper at Arsenal and was recommended to manager Wenger by former vice-chairman David Dein when he left the club in April.
Dein, who still harbours hopes of returning to Arsenal if American billionaire Stanley Kroenke succeeds in taking control of the club, formed a working relationship with Hammond when the pair negotiated the transfers of James Harper and Steven Sidwell to Reading. Dein views Hammond as someone with whom he could work.
But Hammond's decision to turn down the job has shocked Wenger while Reading chiefs, too, are surprised that he is staying.
Hammond will now turn his attention to unrest among some Madejski backroom staff over new contracts to fall in line with other Premiership clubs after their first successful season in the top flight.
Reader views (1)
It is clear that David Dein has an hand in unrest in Arsenal. He is doing this at all cost. Even the Arsenal Captain Henry is tearing Arsenal FC in pieces because Dein's son is his agent. Perhaps this is the worst captain Arsenal has had! Every year there must be noise about him. A club is bigger than Dein, Henry! Players come and go but the club remains. Please sell Henry! Let Wenger learn from Alex who sold rude Ruud and he warn the title. Let Henry Go! Fans tired.
- Tony Odek, Kisumu, Kenya
