The administrator was aware of the topics of interest to the fans and he made it clear at the outset that his intention was to be as open as possible but that there were certain details that would have to remain confidential.
After discussions lasting well over an hour the meeting broke up with the fans assured that the interests and future well-being of the club were the primary aim of both the administrator and the chairman.
Mr Jackson explained that although his first legal duty was to the creditors he felt the best way to protect their interests was to preserve the business as an ongoing concern. The fact that John Boyle’s first concern is that the club survives and that he is willing to ‘facilitate’ any prospective purchaser who has the club’s best interest at heart gives clear guidance.
After an initial flurry of interest from potential buyers, negotiations are now progressing (slowly) with a couple of parties. Neither of these represents multi millionaires and both are attempting to put business plans and funding in place.
It is quite possible that no deal will be concluded during the course of the 2002/3 season but in that case the club will continue to operate under the watchful eye of the administrator.
The projection for the short term is that the outgoings are less than the income so the club is “well placed, financially”.
The football management side of the club has been restructured with George Adams taking on the role of manager of football matters (signing players, negotiating contracts etc). Terry Butcher’s job is to look after the first team with the help of Chris McCart as assistant manager (while retaining U21 duties). A new youth coach is needed.
Terry is delighted at the commitment and attitude being shown by the current squad and feels that, with a few additions before the transfer deadline, they will be able to hold their own.
There is no legal restraint on the club that can prevent the signing of new players and indeed it is probable that some new faces will be signed by the start of the season.
The club are not seeking bids for any player and hope to have a period of stability with the playing staff.
Some time was spent discussing the way that the current situation was being portrayed in the press and it became clear, yet again, that many of the stories in the tabloids were works of fiction.
There was an agreement that similar meetings between the club and fans should be held regularly and Bryan Jackson made it clear that his intention was to give supporters as much information as possible.
Season ticket sales are looking healthy and this season, above all, is one where the fans can make a difference. We must turn up in large numbers and give the team the best of support.
Come on ye ‘Well!