CHARLTON’S civil war has left fans fearing they could “do a Bury”.
It stems from a spat between chairman Matt Southall and major shareholder Tahnoon Nimer.
Charlton fans fear the civil war at the club will have them going the same way as ill-fated BuryCredit: Reuters
Southall was served papers for his suspension by Nimer’s lawyers at The Valley on Thursday but refused to leave and called the police.
Nimer owns 65 percent but has yet to show proof of funds to the EFL, who require owners to prove they can support a club financially for at least two seasons — about £17million for the Addicks.
Southall told Charlton Athletic Supporters’ Trust (CAST) on Wednesday the club had enough money without Nimer to make it to Christmas.
But fixture suspension due to coronavirus will hit that projection hard, along with an obligation to buy the stadium and training ground from hated previous owner Roland Duchatelet for between £15m-16m.
Possible relegation from the Championship and lack of saleable players compound the problem and leaves fans worried about replicating Bury, who were expelled from League One last year after financial difficulties.
CAST vice chair Steve Clarke said: “This is the most critical period we’ve had since the 1980s when we nearly went bust.
“The EFL need to step up now. That two people are possibly ruining a club within three months is beyond outrageous.”
The club issued a statement yesterday which said it was “assured” by Nimer’s commitment, and “hopes the directors resolve their differences for the best of everyone at Charlton.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
