ESPN Soccernet - Correspondents - Blackburn Rovers
soccernet blog
Blackburn Rovers
Posted by Marcus Tattersall on 08/04/2010

Finally it seems that the media silence regarding Rovers possible takeover is being slowly lifted as it has emerged this morning that an Indian tycoon, Ashan Ali Syed, has targeted Rovers. Various media outlets report that Ali Syed, Head of the investment company Western Gulf Advisory, has promised to clear the club's £20 million debt and invest £300 million to sustain the club over a long period of time.

Supporters will welcome this news, regardless of whether a deal is done or not. The lack of information and transfer activity this summer has frustrated many but Chairman John Williams is a shrewd and competent negotiator and has always looked after the best interests of the club. Some supporters believe that the club is so well run with incredibly generous season ticket prices, that they are quite happy keeping the status quo as long as Rovers keep their head above water.

There is some merit in this argument. Rovers have not always enjoyed a 'love in' with their own fans, but recently with a much improved PR department, supporters are appreciating the efforts made off the field by the club. There is a togtherness at Ewood. There may be disagreements regarding Allardyce's tactics, but most fans are realistic to know that the side has been punching above its' weight for some time and have backed the players with their vocal support.

The club have in turn recognised the part played by the locals and have offered the 2nd lowest priced season tickets in the entire country. An obvious concern is if a new regime takes over then prices will increase, as has been the case at other clubs in a similar situation. I am sure John Williams will take this into account when entering in any negotiations.

The protracted takeover talks have meant a quieter than usual summer at Ewood. On a positive note, Rovers have kept hold of their prized assets and they are not the only club who haven't opened the wallet this Summer. Many teams in the Premier League have had to face up to the times we currently find ourselves in and have had to cut their cloth accordingly. But recent defeats to Huddersfield, Preston, Rangers and AEK Athens have highlighted the weaknesses in the squad and a massive area of concern is putting the ball in the net.

With Kalinic on the treatment table, there is even more of an onus to be placed on Jason Roberts. Jason has always given his all for the cause and nobody has ever doubted his commitment but he has never been prolific or consistent at Rovers. Some fans argue that the lack of ambition shown by the club is mirrored by the fact that he is almost certainly going to kick off the new season against Everton. If new investment is to be forthcoming, it is vital that a sizeable chunk of it is spent on a proven goalscorer.


Comments

Posted by eddio on 08/04/2010

A well argued and balanced piece Marcus! I for one would welcome this new bid, as it appears to be a hugely beneficial one for the club (and the town?). In John Williams we have a chairman who is both shrewd and street-wise enough to know whether a deal is in the best interests of all concerned at the club.
My one concern would be just how much the Walker Trust would be willing to accept to 'wash their hands' of their interests, as this appears to be their recent stance? Hopefully,the combined nous of those involved should resolve any/all issues?
Let's just hope "this could be the start of something BIG"

Posted by Vinjay on 08/04/2010

It certainly seems that Mr Ali Syed has a "think big" mentality something many people at Blackburn Rovers are currently lacking.

If he wants to increase ticket prices then fine within reason. I would gladly pay more with a decent owner than less with the garbage that owns the club at present. I believe the current prices are too low and he would be fully entitled to raise admission.

Williams has no say in this deal. Why do people keep acting like he owns the club and has say in whether a sale goes ahead?

This club has been held back for long enough. The club has not been punching above anything. If the current owners actually had any ambition (the current transfer funds are pathetic) the club may have finished higher in the league table last season. There's been nothing but positives as relates to Mr Ali Syed thus far and that is what I will focus on.

It has not been "quieter than usual" at all. Maybe in regards to transfers but that is not what we should judge this summer on.

Posted by Phil on 08/05/2010

I really like the sound of this investor ($$), he would give us greater financial stability meaning that we would no longer have to constantly rely on unearthing local gems and transfer bargains to stay alive. We could actually buy the players we want and need to compete in the Premier League.

But I am sceptical, these takeovers are always a lot more complicated than they seem. We'll wait and see though, fingers crossed.

  Post your comment
Name:
Email Address:
Comments:
characters left