Everton respond to John Textor takeover comments with official statement
Everton interim CEO Colin Chong has released an official statement regarding the comments made by John Textor over his proposed takeover.
Released on Thursday afternoon [12 September], the club have issued their message on the matter via their official website, after Textor had claimed a deal was close to acquire Farhad Moshiri’s controlling stake at Goodison.
The American businessman – owner of Lyon, Botafogo and a significant shareholder in Crystal Palace – has also already planned meetings with Sean Dyche on the club’s future, and suggested the fee it would have required for the Toffees to sell star defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
In a statement composed by Chong, Everton shared: “The Club is aware of the comments made by John Textor in relation to a potential purchase of the Club.
“While positive conversations and progress continues to be made with Mr. Textor to formalise any deal with him, there remains some work to be done to complete the transaction.
“Accordingly, the comments made by Mr. Textor merely represent his personal view on Club matters.
“Everyone at the Club is staying focused on providing the best support possible to Sean and the squad as we head into the weekend’s fixture.
“The Club will provide updates in respect of new investment when there is material news to communicate to supporters and other stakeholders – and this will be done through official Club channels.”
Everton release official statement on John Textor
Following so much uncertainty and chaos surrounding Everton with their boardroom changes, takeover saga and financial commitments, a clear and concise statement from Chong is welcome to the supporters.
Whilst the fans know where they stand following previous criticism of the club’s regularity of communication, Chong’s words could be received as somewhat deflating, with the Goodison faithful desperate to see a deal go through.
Textor is a brazen character, not afraid to speak up, and it comes across as refreshing, if not brash. It at least provides some excitement to the supporters, but they also need clarity – and Chong knows he is the only individual who could deliver that in the current circumstances.
The news delayed Dyche’s pre-match press conference, as claimed by the Liverpool Echo’s Joe Thomas [12 September], before the team travel to Birmingham to take on Aston Villa.
It made for a dramatic afternoon at Finch Farm, but while Dyche aims to focus on football, the latest twist in the takeover tale will be more than just discussed before the Villa clash.
In other Everton news, Aaron Lennon fears the worst in the Premier League this season.
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