Robbie Fowler rages at Farhad Moshiri ‘disaster’ as multi-million Everton takeover news emerges
Farhad Moshiri’s tenure as Everton majority shareholder has been a “disaster” and he doesn’t “get” the club, according to Robbie Fowler.
Writing in the print edition of the Sunday Mirror (17 September, pg 76), Fowler was scathing of Moshiri’s time at the club but remained cautious regarding 777 Partners’ takeover of the club.
Everton confirmed (15 September) that the Miami-based investment company had agreed to a multi-million-pound deal to acquire Moshiri’s 94.1% stake in the club, subject to regulatory approval.
Fowler said: “Everton fans deserve their club to be run by people who get it. Moshiri, quite clearly, didn’t get it.
“His ownership has been a disaster. Have there been people who have got past the fit and proper test? It has looked that way, hasn’t it? I’d be amazed if it still happens now, though.
“It would be an incredible can of worms, because everyone – and I mean everyone – will be looking at this takeover to ensure it is done properly.”
Scathing
Fowler does not hold back in his assessment of Moshiri. Despite being a Liverpool legend, Fowler is very complimentary of the Toffees in his column, calling them “one of the most historic clubs in world football”.
That club may soon have new majority owners, but Fowler is sceptical as to whether the deal will go through at all. Many have questioned their ability to run the club, with the Daily Mail reporting (30 August) that UK government officials in Whitehall had concerns regarding their owner Josh Wander’s ability to pass the owners’ and directors’ test.
Fowler took aim directly at Moshiri, claiming he does not understand the club and that Evertonians deserve a better man at the top of the hierarchy. Despite spending huge sums of money on the club, Everton’s trajectory has plummeted since the 68-year-old bought a 49.9% stake in the club.
Frequently facing relegation and being poor in the transfer market, a once-Europe-chasing Everton could have the chance to change their fortunes under the guidance of a new owner – if the deal is approved.
Fowler, like “everyone”, will no doubt be keeping a close eye on the developments at Goodison Park.
In other Everton news, a journalist has shared what 777 Partners must do if the complete their takeover.