Listening to Arsenal FC FanTalk’s latest video – which had Tim Payton talking about all things ranging from the lack of transfers, Arsene Wenger, the frustrated fans and the efforts of the Arsenal Supporters Trust.
One thing that stood out from the 14-minute video was one line said by Payton that left me dumbfounded.
Payton said:
“There will be meetings. We have requested a meeting with new Chairman Chips Keswick.
“Which will come up when he is back – I think he is on holiday at the moment.”
Why is he on Holiday!
Sir Chips Keswick is our new chairman, he was appointed on the 14th June after previous chairman Peter Hill-Wood had to stand down.
Unbelievably, whilst we are desperately in need of reinforcements, our Chairman is lapping it up on Holiday. Now I don’t know exactly where he is on holiday or if it could be to do with personal reasons but surely he should be in London talking with people in the club, trying to sign new players.
That is part of his role, to manage the club and support board members. He cannot do that on Holiday.
Legend voiced fears
When he was appointed people voiced concerns, one being former captain and legend Tony Adams.
He said: “Chips is a great guy but not a very imaginative choice by the owner – and he is 73.
“If they wanted a figurehead, they should have gone for me. It would have been a better visionary decision than Chips.
“They should be lining up the new manager. Chief executive Ivan Gazidis is in a tricky situation and could do with some help.
“It’s time that Arsenal won something again, even the FA Cup or League Cup. But I can’t see it,”
You may not agree with all of Adams points but it has to be questioned whether Chips Keswick was the right choice.
The man himself
Sir Chips is a lifelong fan and has been on the board since 2005. His role is to work directly with Ivan Gazidis on the club’s football and business ambitions.
Can he really have a say on the club’s football ambitions on Holiday?
When he was appointed he said:
“This is one of the great clubs in the game, recognised and loved by millions.
“I am looking forward to leading the club to future success.”
Unfortunately whilst you remain on Holiday Sir Chips you won’t be able to effect that.
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