Deal has to be right for Latics — Owen

Stephen Vaughan: claims Athletic deal talks "at an advanced stage."

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BARRY Owen has assured worried Athletic supporters there are NO plans to sell the club to a consortium fronted by controversial businessman Stephen Vaughan.

After talking to owner Simon Corney in New York, Trust Oldham chairman Owen said any sale would have to be in the best interests of Oldham Athletic Football Club.

Owen said employees have been assured their jobs are secure and that Corney is fully focused on delivering the new North Stand at Boundary Park.

“I am somewhat confused at this stage why they (the consortium) have decided that publicity would benefit their cause,” he revealed. “We look forward to progressing with our new projects and to the start of the season.”

Vaughan told the Chronicle yesterday his bid was at a “very advanced stage” following talks with Corney, who chose not to pass comment.

But Owen’s public statement serves to quell speculation that the former Chester City owner is on the verge of gaining control of the club.

It is also believed Football League rules surrounding ownership would severely hinder Vaughan’s chances.

Vaughan claimed he is entitled to take up to 30 per cent of the shareholding in Athletic, with others handling day-to-day running, despite failing an FA “fit and proper persons” test four years ago.

It is now understood the authorities would challenge such a move if he is still considered to be pulling the strings.

The Football League board could try to block Vaughan holding shares by asseerting that even as a non-director — Vaughan is currently disqualified from directorships — he would be acting as the ultimate beneficial owner and would not pass the Football League’s test.