It was today confirmed that businessman Simon Sadler would become Blackpool's new owner, following a statement on the club's website. It was announced that Mr Sadler had both acquired 96.2% of the club and bought the stadium, hotel and training ground.
In the statement Sadler said,
“It is my great honour and privilege to become the owner and custodian of Blackpool Football Club. By providing financial stability and investment over time, my intention is for the Club to achieve its full potential. I will ensure that the Club is managed with the interests of all stakeholders in mind.
“I would like to thank the Joint Receivers and the current board, management and staff for having chaperoned the Club during this time of transition. I would also like to thank the fans and the wider community for re-engaging with the Club after a lengthy period of turmoil.
“I look forward to the release of the fixture list on 20 June 2019 and to the season ahead. UTMP!”
Here's what you need to know:
Simon Sadler is a Hong Kong based businessman, moving there in 1999 and then set up 'Segantii Capital Management' in 2007. Mr Sadler also incorporated two sports companies at the end of May this year.
In terms of relation to the club, Mr Sadler was born and raised in Blackpool and made his first visit to Bloomfield Road at the age of 8. He was also in attendance in 2010, when Blackpool were promoted to the Premiership in the Playoff final. Sadler's attachment to the club is imperative, as this is something the club has been deprived of in recent times. The tangerine colour scheme associated with his company and his ownership of Sir Stanley Matthew’s 1953 FA Cup winner’s medal indicate a true commitment.
The plans for the short term future are Michael Bolingbroke, Ben Hatton and Ian Currie will remain at the club for the coming months to provide guidance, however any developments beyond this remain vague.
This is a monumental day in the timeline of this football club because, whatever the future holds, the town has its club back.
UTMP