the first couple of weeks...
 

Good evening everyone. I dont know about you, but the past two weeks feel as if they have been two months. So much has happened that its been difficult at times just to keep up.

I wanted to post this message in order to continue to fulfill my pledge of being accessible, and open. Its very easy once you get into the position of a board member or "insider" to find all kinds of reasons for keeping quiet, or out of sight, but I hope that will not be the case with me and ASFC.

I am going to be up and around on this site and logged in for about an hour, and will try my best to get back to any questions that arise, but here is my quick summary.

• yes, i am thrilled to pieces with the Leeds draw. See you all at Elland Road. I agree with many of the people who have posted and said that we need the press behind us to get as much attention to the game as possible. Hopefully i can add to that process.
• Peter Marsden and I have had a few constructive and positive meetings with David and Rob. Its clearly a challenge to put all the past behind us, but I wish you all to know that both sides are genuine, and we have been very deliberate about our actions as well as our words.
• Right now, we are still in the process of putting together a clear record of the financial affairs. I am hoping that prior to the end of November we really are all seeing the same facts, and can then look to provide solutions. Clearly the club has been troubled for a while. The debt was all accumulated whilst Whalley was in charge, and the accounts will take a while to reconstruct. What took time to build up will not be solved overnight.
• my focus has shifted slightly from historic debt to the club. initially the squad (and yes, coleman is fabulous, his team are the bees knees and I want to do all I can to make them our priority), then the ground, and then the overall infrastructure around the ground
• I am afraid I cannot make all the games, but I do hope to be at Bradford, and then of course Leeds.
• On ownership, please note that David O Neil's comments to the Observer are accurate. As of right now Eric Whalley owns approx 51% of the shares outstanding. However I also confirm that David is actively trying to complete a deal that he and Eric have agreed. I am not privy to that deal, so I cannot comment on the timing, but I do know that David is trying his best to get things sorted out.
• On other debt, I hope that by the end of the month we have a clear picture, which I will share with our stakeholders (including fans)
• A board meeting appointing Peter and I did take place, and I can confirm that Rob Heys is dealing with the registration. You should not assume that a lack of any update at company's house is somehow suspicious
• I have pledged over and now completed transfer of the shares to the ASSF that i used to own. Peter Shaw has committed to push ahead asap to convert these shares into a trust that can be widely held by all fans.

Beyond that, David has put his focus onto the day to day running of the club. He makes all decisions there, and is the primary liason with both the Press and with internal staff. Rob works for him. This is the arrangement that was agreed, and i am pleased to say it works. Peter and I bring other qualities to the table, and as I think I said at the time of the funding going in, I shall bring my attention to bear on financial matters.

I close by saying that I remain enthusiastic and committed. I promise to let you know if things change. that is for sure. I am there on behalf of the community, and all stakeholders, not for myself or any group of single shareholders.

I hope this helps, somewhat.

with my regards
Ilyas
Monday 8.15pm

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Hi Ilyas
Thank you for your comprehensive posting, as alway informative, honest and inspiring! Question I have at the moment is the timeline for getting the transfer embargo lifted? I'm sure I wasn't the only one worried by that dreadful foul on Bavs on Saturday! Any idea when this will be lifted and JC able to bring some loan players in?

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Preston. When I spoke with John Coleman on the day after the tax bill was paid, I told him that the earliest I expected to be able to clear the ban was Jan 1st 1010 and the latest was the end of the season. I think this was reported in the press, and was also part of the Radio Lancs interview I did on that friday. Nothing has changed to be honest. I think that in the past there have been quite a few expectations that were set, and then not met, so I wish to be conservative, and thereby ensure we are all realistic.

I do however confirm that the transfer ban is quite a major issue that I wish to resolve. I also confirm that I cant see anyway around resolving it other than getting to the bottom of, and then paying off, the relevant debt. Bear with me on this, and I woudl hope to post an update prior to the Leeds game.

Ilyas

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Thanks Ilyas for the clarification. I shall eat my tea in peace now. Kind regards

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Dear Ilyas, many thanks for the update. Is there any more news on the share issue and when certificates, shares etc. will be sent out?

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Good evening Ilyas,
Would it be possible to mention to the commercial arm of ASFC that confusion reigns, and for them to please clarify the situation with regard to the "Share Package" offer.
The number has been reduced from 1,000 to 500 and yet the information regarding the "Premium Packages" is still there eg special numbers 100, 1,000 etc.
Also I judge that a number of interested fans are holding back until it is stated in black and white that the shares do hold voting rights.
Many thanks for your committed time and efforts for ASFC.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Teach
I am just getting my teeth into the share issue now. The only thing that I can say is that limited staff within the club were unable to focus enough attention on the matter, but I do take it very seriously. I promise that the club will make a clarifying statement prior to the end of the month on the scheme as a whole.

In the meantime, if you have a personal issue (for example have paid for the shares, or have applied, then send me a PM with your email address and the circumstances, and I can then try to provide you with specific feedback.

In principle I think we will probably not issue as many shares as was originally intended right now, and think of the share issue as part of the overall financing. the key caveat is that we need to respect and honour those people who actually stepped forward to participate, and who now have the rights to what will be historically and emotionally important souvenirs, as well as being shares representing ownership.

I wish i could be more specific, but on this, I have to ask for some further time, but not much !

Ilyas

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

can we not get 2 plays in then . they can put the ban back on us.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

hello Grimps. how are you ? thank you for making yourself known on saturday last week. You are not half as terrifying as I had been led to believe ! but i know i will always feel safe with you and Jase nearby.

You ask a good question, and one i shall make it my job to find out about. i will come back to you on that. will you be making the trip to wild and woolly yorks ?

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Thanks for the quick response. I'm happy to wait for further news, just wanted an update really.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

I think the share issue is a great idea, maybe the timing could have been slightly better?

But unfortunately it's not for me in it's current guise price wise, I can't justify paying out that sort of money with Christmas looming and money being tight for most folk.

Maybe at some point in the future there may be a re-think on the pricing structure without the add ons to enable everyone who would want to participate and own their own little piece of the Club to be able to do so.:)

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Would have been the ideal present for me to get somebody for Christmas but can't afford the frills nor justify them :(

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

will be at leeds and bury on wensday nite at home . got a running meeting in bolton on sat day so no to bradford . plus the last time i went to bradford it was 3-0 to the accy

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

I'll pay £150 for the flexi ticket and the shirt - you pay £100 for the share and 10% off hospitality?

hows that?

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

:):):) Thanks Ilyas. It is so refreshing to have an executive voice talking to the supporters. It was great to see you mixing in with the Ultras on the Clayton end against Salisbury, banging the drum and singing your head off. It is good to hear that yourself the DON and Rob are working together on clearing up the problems and establishing a new vision for the coming years. I am no financial wizard but may I ask a couple of questions about accounts? - Has the club produced accounts during our time in the Football League? Were they properly audited and/or approved by any form of AGM or Shareholders meeting? It seems to me that if this had been the case then the problems could have been addressed sooner before they became insurmountable. Will it be possible in the future, when you get the infrastructure sorted, for us to see a simple laymans version of the finacial status that we could all understand? I will be at Bradford :) being a nuisance blowing my plastic horn, which I bought at Ewood in the FA Cup 1st Round match against Crewe Alex in the early 1990's!! Ooh Ahh Cantona, By 'eck Paul Beck!!! Might have to miss out at Leeds :( as I have to sing Christmas Carols, (True!!). All the best.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Ilyas Khan's a banker , he wears a bowler hat
And when he saw the Stanleys debt, he said I am paying that.....

He went into the court room, his cheque book in his hand

Now Illyas Khans our hero, he's Stanley through & through .... through & through

(My old mans a dustman)

Regards
Jase

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Jase!!....This is so lyrical...and here's me thinking that it was Revived Red and myself who had the balladry, and metrical composition on our Forum well and truly cornered!!.

Alfred.E. and I ...and I'm quite sure Mr Ilyas Khan as well, are looking forward to your next venture into the realms of romantic Versification.!!.

AND..well done with the Wonderful flag which was presented to our great friends from Bury.F.C. A real Ultras gesture if ever i saw one!!.

'ON STANLEY ON...TO GREATER THINGS!!!'

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Iylas.
Thankyou for your update.
A few questions

The Eric Whalley to Dave O'neill share sale has become a pantomime and no realistic date seems likely for the transfer. I believe due to the prolonged nature of the sale/transfer and the current financial inability of Mr Oneill this is likely to go into next year if not next season.
Is there enough respect for yourself and Eric Whalley to sit down and arrange a deal for these shares/club ownership?
If Eric Whalley is unwilling to speak/negotiate with you; if a fans trust was to apporach him - do you think it may provide more fruitful?
I accept and support your plea for fans to support the current board members Rob Heys and Dave O'Neill; however you must understand neither of these men will be respected or trusted to the pre-tax fiasco status/levels.
If we could prevent Dave O'neill for taking majority ownership and ultimatly control of the club; negotiating with the current chairman Eric Whalley may be the best option for turning Accrington Stanley into a genuine community club.

Second question.
The club are set to release a new shirt and merchandise range. Most fans will desire to purchase the merchandise and team wear to support the club but are concerned the profits will go straight into the pockets of Dave O'neill.
Again I accept your request for support for Dave Oneill, but please understand his deceit/behaviour and financial mismanagement/cover up has left some fans questioning investing/spending further capital at the club as it may profit the man who went to court with no more than an oliver twist plea ('please sir can i have some more'(time)).
Are you able or when do you expect to be able to ensure all income streams are retained and re-invested in the club?

Third question.
The players betting scandal has left a blemish on the clubs infamous name.
We where promised a full internal investigation into the scenario to establish what had taken place. This investigation has never been released and rumours persist the problem was bigger and more wide spread than the original FA charge.
May I ask, are we ever likely to see a internal investigation released/briefed out the the fans?
What is your stance on players found guilty returning to play for the club?

fourth and final question

I fully understand you have been in your current role for a very short period of time.
But I wish to ask, what long term vision do you have for the current ground and its location?
Do you percieve a new stand as a realistic medium/long term goal?
Do you believe new stands/facilitys generate enough income to support a substancial investment?
DO new stadia justify the huge investment required in infastructure?
When you consider the clubs infastructure, is your understanding of long term 5, 10, 20, 50 years?

Thank you for your time and understanding.
Regards,
David.

p.s. I apologise for any spelling mistakes, my new born is keeping me up to the early hours and im not the most grammatically gifted.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

good morning everyone. i am travelling today, but i just wanted to acknowledge the various questions that have not been answered. I will find the time tonight, or at latest tomorrow, to get in front of the laptop and come back to you. so i apologise for the delay. its just a bit logistically challenging today.

and that poem deserves a nobel prize !

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

OK - my first and last literary attempt - to the tune of God Save the Queen:

God save our Ilyas Khan
He's a true Stanley fan
Our saviour, our King

Stanley victorious
Happy and glorious
Long to reign over us
Ilyas, our King!

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

DAV007 - Good post otherwise, but I still don't understand the point quoted, which you keep making in one form or another. If you buy something from the shop the money goes in the till against a receipt, or you write a cheque or validate a card transaction to the club. So how does this money, or gate money, or money spent in the bar or the Crown, transfer itself to the DON's (or anyone else's) pocket? He draws a fixed salary (presumably) as Ops Director for running the club on a daily basis, and if he does eventually get to own shares he could receive a dividend if one was ever declared (not happened in living memory As far as I know). Anything else would be theft, and presumably (hopefully) you're not suggesting that?

I've got no admiration for the DON's management over the eight week crisis, far from it, but you keep making this pocket-lining allegation which can only serve to put people off spending money to support the club, which is what it badly needs. I just don't understand ......:confused:

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

The one thing that I am absolutely sure of now the PM & IK are onboard, is that every penny will be accounted for and will go where it should go! :)

Quote - Expat:-

Beyond that, David has put his focus onto the day to day running of the club. He makes all decisions there, and is the primary liason with both the Press and with internal staff. Rob works for him. This is the arrangement that was agreed, and i am pleased to say it works. Peter and I bring other qualities to the table, and as I think I said at the time of the funding going in, I shall bring my attention to bear on financial matters.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

OVER £100 grand was raised by the SOS yet only £96k went to the tax man.
Iylas donated £25k to the tax fund, it was never included.
There are other examples.
I have no faith in the David O'Neill or Rob Heys finacial management and wish to ask Iylas if he can guarantee any future purchases at the club will stay at the club.

Im sorry - but the points you have made are naive at best and happen in 'normal' companys in 'normal' circumstances. I find it difficult to accept the scenario you have provided has been happening at the club.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Still being a relative newby, I hope this is acceptable in this thread as there are 2 song suggestions already. It's not specifically Ilyas based, but without him we wouldn't be here!

To "Jingle Bells"
Chorus
Stanley Reds, Stanley Reds, we are here to stay.
Heading for a win today so don't get in our way-ay
Stanley Reds, Stanley Reds, shooting for the goals,
Knowing that we cheer them on with all our hearts and souls.

Beating on the drum, singing loud and clear.
Coley's boys all know we are always here.
Waving banners bold, in sun and rain and cold.
Ultras voices ringing out till full time is called. Oh,

Chorus.

Mmm - maybe you can use some of it.
:theband:

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Perhaps DAV007 the missing money was used to keep the club afloat and spent on the day to day running of the business, Not quite right if the money was given specifically to pay off the Taxman but a lot different to it being pocketed by David O'Neill.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

nice one Sherry ;)

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Nice little ditty that Sherry... :)

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

OK guys. here goes with some further clarification and hopefully answers. i will deal with the long post by dave0007. i dont know how to keep all your points in "sight" and still answer from the small box, so if i miss something, please let me know.

1. the eric whalley shareholding question is a bit borderline, but after having thought it through, i guess its fair game. You are correct in your assumption that there is no communication between myself and Eric. I cannot see that changing. As far as the resolution of the situation between him and David O Neil is concerned, I have taken the view that David will deal with Eric, and hopefully bring the matter to a successful resolution. As far as David is concerned, he went on the record two weeks ago and admitted that whilst he has secured a deal to buy whalley's shares, that deal has not yet been completed. I am not privy to all the details, and even if I were, I think it best to currently assume that it is a private matter, therefore I accept David's view that he will be able to complete within a short period of time. I know its a question on everyone's mind, but I have made it clear to David, and to everyone else, that I will look forward to welcoming the change in the register, since that is David's objective.

2. Your question about cash going into the club. I cannot talk about the past, but since I became chairman, each and every penny has been used for the club's benefit. Your question is awkward to answer beyond that, since I woudl be open to a charge of undermining the team if I suggested that i had doubts about this statement. I will therefore say that nothing i have witnessed or seen in the past two weeks has led me to believe that David or Rob or anyone else will do anything other than carry out their fiduciary obligations. I do note the continuing worries about the discrepancy between reported SOS and actual cash remittance, but I have accepted the club as its face value, and I would ask all others to do the same. More importantly, if anything goes awry in the future, then the buck stops here. I close this part by repeating that I honestly do not see anything wrong in the actions of anyone at the club with respect to cash management, and I think that Peter and David are with me in confirming that if anything ever was to go wrong, the culprit would be pursued with all the force and vigour that the law affords. I hope you and all fans will now start to see that we are a community club, and need not only your support, but your trust. Please judge us now by our actions, not by our words.

3. the question about betting/match fixing I am afraid is impossible for me to answer. A few other people have raised the same question, and all i can offer is the assurance that the matter has been dealt with. However you post reminds me to try and find out (for my own benefit) a few more facts. I think this issue is mercifully behind us.

4. I dont know of any plan other than to remain at the crown ground, so the infrastructure refit/rebuild has to be long term. In footy terms long term has to be 5yrs, and in some cases it might be more. There are so many things that need fixing (the ground itself and that awful slope), the stands, public facilities. I could go on. My priority right now is to repay debt, then focus on strengthening Coley's team, and then the other facility issues. I wish i could be more direct, but I hope that by easter I might be more definitive. IN the past I know that the club has over promised and under delivered. As a fan, rather than an owner, I want to restore that balance to the more healthy one of keeping our expectations in line with reality. I believe all directors are the same view.

Ilyas

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

On the share package I would like to say that I do (now) believe that the purchase is well worth the effort. I would never ever wish to persuade anyone that the shares themselves have intrinsic value. the truth is that they dont. the club's liabilitieis and ongoing challenges for capital mean that any independent valuation would mean that the shares have a minimal price. However, as we all know, equity in the club is valued by those who are attached to the institution, and if you do become a shareholder then I will always treat you - whether you have 1 share or 1000 shares - on an equal footing, with the courtesy and respect that you would deserve. Also, as I have said, I wish the club to start to take its obligations as part of the community more seriously. I dont wish to comment on whalley's efforts or intentions, but looking forward, we start with transparency of financial report.

I woudl also say that in addition, even though the shares may have no genuine financial value today, that might change in the future. the value of the squad could beecome very important, and, as you know, the value of the brand "accy stanley", when well run and respected, would be worth much more than the tangible assets.

i close by repeating that any purchase would be a worthwhile gesture of real support for the club, but please please do not buy the shares if you think the shares are worth an investment. Do it for love of the club, for support of the club, and with the total reassurance that all money will go to the club. I promise you that much. and who knows, if our team does well, and some Saudi Arabian trillionaire comes along, we might all feel a bit better !!

Ilyas

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Good Evening Ilyas, Thank you for getting back to us all, but I am sorry to say that the "Share Issue Package" has yet to be clarified on the ASFC site. I appreciate that it is not something that you would deal with personally, but perhaps a word in the right ear may get it done and ensure that prospective buyers have a clear view of what they would be getting, as well as the pleasure of owning a little of their beloved club.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Hello Sherry. I apologise for the confusion. The share package has been (finally) clarified and cleared, and is in the process of being communicated. i must admit i thought it had been posted, but you are right, It has not. I will push them, but in the meantime, my comments remain the same, and hopefully you will all agree when you see the details !! Again, sorry about that. Also, Sherry, for you and others, if you see the final update in the nxt day or so, and dont think its clear, or think its in need of further refinement, then come back to me. I dont check accy web as regularly as i should, but you have my personal email, so just drop me a line.

Ilyas

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Hi Ilyas
I appreciate your clarity as always, I want to invest in the Club and yes I would love a share, but I simply can't afford to stump up £250 plus vat for that privilege.

Will the other 500 shares be made available at a later date for just a share option at a more attainable price?

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Just a point Pendle Red, there is NO vat now, its £250 with vat included

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Thanks for that KSH:o

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

KSH how do you know these things ? am i going mad, and in fact this information is up on the fishy web site ?

Pendle, if you want to buy, but dont have the dosh right now, but are genuine in your desire, and wish to payover a period of time, I woudl imagine that the club might be able to entertain that idea. just approach Dan or Rob and tell them I suggested you chat. I cant guarantee they will be amenable (for example all the shares might have been bought etc), but no harm asking if you wish to go down that route. i leave it to you. Please dont respond on the public forum since it is a personal matter.

On the other 500 shares, i really dont know how that will work. May I come back to you when we have some decisions please ?

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

By all means please do:)

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

I got told when I ordered my 2nd one, the 1st I paid £250+vat, when I sent payment for the 2nd they told me then and they only took around £220ish I think, they refunded the vat from the 1st payment.
Also got an email today from Martin confirming things and this was in the email

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

It is on the fishy site on this page sportsman
Under terms and conditions it says
2) All prices shown include VAT.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

there was something on the radio (2BR) today but i only caught the back end and it may not have been Stanley, it said something along the lines of "the reds have released 500 shares ..... the other 500 will be available at a later date at .... a revised price/different package ...

sorry its vague but I was busy with something else and only caught the bits and pieces.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Iylas
Thank you for your response.
I do agree regarding the betting scandal, it is now behind us and while a full investigation would have been the right thing to do, we must look forward and influence football for the better.

You have also pulled on my heart strings and I will have to find £250 for a share package.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

I'm fighting back the tears of joy and gratitude at the openness, generosity and effort of our new chairman. Was it really only less than a year ago that Stanley was still in the vice-like grip of the previous regime, with all its apparent bullying, secrecy and financial chicanery.
To paraphrase what's 'is name, "Can we do it? Yes, we Khan!"
Let me think about this. £250 on a yet another load of plastic tat this year, or a share of t'Stanley as the best Xmess present a kid could have.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Just wanted to say that I've had four e-mails from different people at the club over the last few days about the share issue. They really do seem to be doing their best to keep me up to date about what's going on. How refreshing to know that the club is really making an effort to improve its communications.

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

I too have had good communication from Martin. The share packages will be ready to collect on the 1st Dec with the offical handout date being the 4th before the Torquay match

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

5th :D

Re: the first couple of weeks...
 

Ehhhhh, stop being pedantic, you'll have tinmonkey after you ;)