Fulham Supporters’ Trust statement on Shahid Khan’s bid for Wembley Stadium
Responding to the confirmation from Fulham FC owner Shahid Khan
that he has bid to purchase Wembley from the Football Association, the
Chair of Fulham Supporters’ Trust, Tom Greatrex commented:
“The
news of the bid from Fulham’s owner for Wembley stadium is prompting
interest and questions from across English football. While Shahid Khan’s
ambition to promote NFL in England is well known, there are particular
and specific concerns relating to the impact on his stewardship of
Fulham Football Club that will be at the forefront of many of our fans’
minds.
“While we welcome the statement from Shahid
Khan that his bid for Wembley is separate to his ownership of Fulham, it
nevertheless raises a series of questions. During his time as Chairman
of Fulham to date, Shahid Khan has reiterated his understanding of and
appreciation for the importance of Craven Cottage, it’s heritage and
identity to the character of Fulham Football Club. It is important that
is not diminished if his bid for Wembley is successful. At a time when
we are enjoying an exciting second half and climax to the season,
playing some superlative football, nobody associated with Fulham will
want to be distracted by questions of future grounds, the approved plans
for a new Riverside Stand and ultimately the ownership of the Club.
“The
fact that Shahid Khan has issued a statement signalling his continued
commitment to the Club is welcome, but there will be questions fans wish
to be reassured on in the period ahead. Fulham Football Club were the
first in the EFL to agree to structured dialogue with the Fulham
Supporters’ Trust. It is precisely in these type of circumstances that
the value of that open, transparent and meaningful dialogue will be
tested. We therefore ask Shahid Khan to ensure that any potential impact
of his bid for Wembley in relation to Fulham is discussed with the
Trust as we will fulfill our role representing Fulham fans and
articulating their concerns as they arise.”
