Kendall commits to Lilywhites...Exclusive interview with Rhyl's Number One
Rhyl Goalkeeper Lee Kendall has given the club a timely morale boost before Saturday's Intertoto Cup match, by signing an extension to his contract to keep him at Belle Vue until 2012. The League's top stopper has taken time this evening to discuss his decision with the League, in an Exclusive Interview.
"After my Dad passed away, I felt that I had to spend more time with my family. I told the club, that I wanted to play closer to home and cut down on the travelling and they were sympathetic about the decision. But, they have been so understanding through this tough time and have always shown me how much they wanted me to stay at Belle Vue.
I've really got to compliment the Directors at Rhyl, because they have looked after me and provided support when my dad suddenly died.
"The Managing Director Dave Milner came down to Cardiff to speak with me today and I spoke with Peter Parry (President) on the phone as well. We had a productive discussion and they have offered me a long-term deal, which I couldn't refuse. It will allow me to spend more time with the family and also let me play for this great club.
"I've really got to compliment the Directors at Rhyl, because they have looked after me and provided support when my dad suddenly died and Joe Furnival (Secretary) made it all the way down for the Funeral, which didn't go unnoticed."
Kendall is also looking forward to the new coaching regime at Belle Vue and told us,
"I've met up with Alan Bickerstaff and Osian Roberts already and I got to see Alan's coaching methods in Belfast last week. They are both highly qualified coaches and the club feel that together, they can take this club forward. They have tremendous pedigree, which I've no doubt will benefit us going into next seson.
"They were also aware about my playing situation after the Intertoto, and they have both been understanding and would have supported whatever decision I made. I'm delighted to have agreed this new deal and I really want to impress the two of them on the Field."
Kendall was certainly sought after and he confirmed that a number of clubs from outside the Welsh Premier were supposed to have been interested in his signature. However, the ex-Wales Under 21 International was keen to express his happiness at remaining with the Lilywhites and within the League.
The season starts early for the 'keeper and his teammates and he is looking forward to the Intertoto Cup match against Bohemians on Saturday, which he believes will be tough.
I've met up with Alan Bickerstaff and Osian Roberts already...They are both highly qualified coaches and the club feel that together, they can take this club forward.
"They are flying at the moment and are top of the strong Eircom League, having only dropped a couple of points in their summer season. But, we proved out in Lisburn against a decent side, that we could play football and get a result so I'm sure we can in Dublin as well."
Kendall has developed a good relationship with the loyal Rhyl fans during his first year at the club and he was keen to mention their importance over the next couple of weeks.
"We have an outstanding fan-base and I know that there are hundreds travelling on the weekend. I really hope that we can get a result and pick up an away goal to please them and that will really set up the tie at Belle Vue.
"I understand that tickets for the home leg are down on what the club expected at this stage, so I'm making a plea to all of the people in Rhyl and Denbighshire too, to come down and support your side in Europe. We may need you to be the extra person!"
