Chris Moore has made a dramatic move to help Athletic beat the threat of extinction as he met with legal experts to sign over his entire 95% stake in the club. Mr. Moore said, “I’ve taken a close look at the numbers and I’m convinced liquidation isn’t necessary. A couple of changes are needed in what I’ve received, but I’m prepared to sign over my shares to Sean and Neil, who will hold them for a short time on behalf of the other people involved. I know the fans don’t want to hear this — and it distresses me as well — but I believe selling players remains crucial. I’ve been active in the transfer market and I want to apologise for the situation. Unlike Iain Dowie, however, I’m being realistic.” The negotiations were carried out via e-mail as Moore is based in Oxford. It is understood that Mr. Moore has paid six of Athletic’s players to prevent them walking away although it is unclear about the status of those payments. As the Latics bank accounts are frozen, technically the wages haven’t been paid by the club and the Football League are investigating to see if they are in breach of contract. Mr. Moore is keen to bring in transfer fees before handing over control.
Iain Dowie is totally against what Moore is doing but as Moore is club president, majority shareholder and representative of the board he is therefore in authority. One thing is for sure, Athletic have definitely won a stay of execution and the whole deal looks to be settled on Monday.