Trust seeking assurances

Simon Corney: potential investment?

TRUST Oldham have made public their concerns over the potential investment into Athletic, stating that the club's board of directors have been kept in the dark over developments.

Dubai-based agent Abdallah Lemsagam is being courted by Simon Corney to put money into the club, with Athletic's chairman keen to get a deal done before the transfer deadline on Thursday night.

But the Trust issued a draft statement to the Chronicle this morning outlining their concerns over a complete lack of clarity at board level.

"As fans we always welcome interest in our club and any potential investment," the Trust statement reads. "We have been monitoring the current situation and gathering further information since being informed of talks between the chairman and an interested party last week.

"From our viewpoint any investment must follow the correct path to meet the club's own articles of association and those of both the EFL and FA. We would expect any investor would be keen to do this if they have the long-term future of the club in mind.

"We can confirm there has been no attempt by anyone associated with the current rumoured investor to speak to the Trust nor have there been any investor plans outlined to the full club board of directors.

"Until either of these happens this remains a rumour and we will continue to question any further information we receive.

"It is important that as fans we unite behind Shez, the team and club staff and help lift spirits after a difficult start to the season.

"Our fans were magnificent in their support at Blackpool and we must continue to back Shez and the players as they try to turn things around."

Meanwhile, after only being able to name three substitutes at Blackpool due to an injury crisis, Athletic manager John Sheridan is battling on ahead of tonight's Checkatrade Trophy game at home to Port Vale (7.30pm kick-off).

Sheridan hopes to have Wigan midfielder Jack Byrne among his line-up, provided a deal can be finalised for the midfielder either on loan or on a free transfer.