Bosses at stricken retail chain HMV have said they are "convinced" they can secure a future for the business despite collapsing into administration after poor Christmas sales.
Trevor Moore, chief executive of HMV, insisted there was a place for HMV on the high street and said he was "confident that we will find a solution".
The group confirmed it had been a torrid Christmas for the retailer, saying sales had been disappointing after the failure to secure the supply of two key tablet computers saw it miss out on surging demand for the gadgets.
While it did not reveal its festive performance, HMV said sales declines remained around the 10.2% level seen in the half year to October 26.
The group's 4,500 staff face an uncertain future after it revealed its intention to appoint Deloitte as administrators, marking the latest in a run of high profile retail collapses following the demise of camera chain Jessops and electricals group Comet.
But Mr Moore - who also previously headed up failed retailer Jessops - said: "We remain convinced that we can find a successful business outcome."
Sparking speculation of management involvement in an attempt to rescue the business, he said bosses remained "passionate" about the chain.
"I am every bit as passionate about HMV as I was when I joined in September. I'd like to be involved in the business going forward if the opportunity presented itself," he said.
He added the group was doing "whatever we can in conjunction with Deloitte to safeguard jobs where possible".
"I would like to personally pay tribute to the 4,500 people who work for HMV. Clearly this is a very worrying time for them and their families," he said.
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