Thetownend.com

I know the Lee Power thread is there for all the takeover chat and at the risk of becoming the new Audrey I'm preparing a thread for when we get the green light from the EFL and we can get behind Mr Morfuni, the new manager, players, staff etc. We face a tough season but if the fans can come together as one, the CG with fans can be a glorious place to go and watch football.

Dare I pre-empt a Friday statement?? (And no, I am not ITK :) )

The Adver via the Trust say its close.

https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/19445328.clem-morfuni-complete-efl-fit-proper-persons-test-imminently-say-trust/

That's just rehashing what was said on Talk Bollocks yesterday, this bit was more worrying

'though the transfer of shares does not appear to be close at this point'

Good to see Geoff the Ref adding to the debate

Fucking optimist  :D

Maybe just for balance you should start a separate thread along the lines of EFL reject Clems application/ Clem walks away etc. Just in case!

I think you're sitting on the perfect account to start that thread, to be honest.

Yeah that didn't go as well as I anticipated :)

MONDAY MONDAY!

Lets hope its not a 'blue' one. Guess it could be a 'manic' one. But, 'I don't like mondays'.

Tell me why.

It will be Monday. Failing that possibly Tuesday. If not definitely Wednesday. Could be Thursday buy hey we’re all a sucker for a statement Friday right?

And it could be this week, next week, next month etc

Quite.

You'd have to be an employee of the EFL to have definitive 'knowledge' right now. Frustrating that we are seemingly at the mercy of the 9-5esque EFL office hours

If people are hearing stuff then it stems from ITKers saying 'it should' or 'we hope'.

Morfuni/Trust/STFC won't delay announcements once it's been approved and shares have been transferred. We've all suffered quite enough.

Wonder when it’s all completed they have enough time to launch season tickets. Not even sure we’ve a kit lined up for next season. Guess we start next season with last seasons kit with Imagine Cruising removed.

Indeed, the list of things Clem has to do is lengthy and obviously will be harder to do the longer the process takes. That said I'm confident a lot of the behind the scenes legwork has already been done and will be good to go as soon as he gets the green light.

My main concern are things like Insurance and safety certificates etc that may hinder us being able to play any matches, that obviously will result in points and financial punishments. We can play in plain red t shirts as far as I'm concerned, I just want the important things ready. A manager and team would be helpful also.

It makes you wonder who would be choosing any new manager & staff behind the scenes as you would hope someone has been doing the ground work

Luckily first 2 games are away, buys a little time to get The County Ground ready.

Luckily, the non-office staff haven't stopped. They've got lots of things ready to present to Morfuni's people for whenever the time comes (some of it simply requires the signature) and this includes ST, kits, commerical etc.

The less than 3 week turnaround is insane though. Going to be an intense month for many people behind the scenes.

Yeah as I thought. These guys, that work like trojans behind the scenes by people who are not getting paid on time etc are the real heroes of the football club. The next month as you say is going to be hellish busy for them. Legends each and every one.

In my head is a Kevin Keegan voice saying “ I’d love it, I’d just love it if we tear up this league and win promotion at the first attempt “. Couldn’t think of a better UP YOURS to Lee Power than that.

Absolutely, what a huge "fuck off Power" statement that would be.

(https://media1.tenor.com/images/753ca4af565db7b5b22e2c9cc2f8386f/tenor.gif)

Just a thought about the intensity. As there will be so much to do in so little time, surely the more hands on deck we have the better? By this I mean there must be a wide range of skills or just effort available in the fanbase which could be offered to the club on a voluntary basis once the takeover is completed. In the past many fans have joined in clearing snow to get a match on.

Good shout

Agreed. would be happy to take time off work to help out unpaid at STFC once there is an acceptable change in ownership

24/7 for a while I’d imagine.

Freedom (from Power) Day?

Not helpful at all.

Great shout - I'd love to be involved in something like this.

Let’s hope today is the day. It’s going to be very telling quite how much is lined up and ready to go, and to me, will be a good indicator of what lies ahead with the Axis ownership.

It should be a Big Bang. New senior appointments - manager, assistant, CEO, DoF (perhaps), and crucially, a glut of players in by the end of the week (triallists, loans and perms). They key is going to be flipping what currently looks like chaos / famine, into a positive - a new, energised club pulling towards a single goal.

Is John McGreal still out of work as he could be a quick appointment

I did wonder whether McGreal might be lined up as the new manager under a different contract. However I do also wonder whether McGreal may have been loyal to shady Lee and therefore won't work for STFC under a new ownership. Hopefully we may found out one way or another this week.

If he did come back at least he would know what players are out there and maybe have them already lined up

We can probably say the same about whoever else might be lined up.

Indeed, the ones that haven't signed for other clubs already that is.

I've not hit the panic button yet, I'm confident this is going through and plenty of important appointments and decisions will be made immediately too. 

We are behind, nobody is doubting that but assuming all monies owed to allow us to come out from our embargo are paid I think we can expect an exciting, if frantic, few weeks. 

There are without question loads of free agents we'll have missed out on but equally there are loads of players at clubs looking to leave either on loan or permanently, these players will have been training with their clubs so will be as fit as any other L2 players currently with their respective squads.

As far as tactics and unity go we will still be behind but there is still time to cobble a decent squad together, we have until 02/09 to sign attached players, unattached players can still be brought in after, there always seems to be a few released on deadline day so still a decent resource.

If we get a couple of, on paper, good L2 players we'll start to look like a promising place to be and confidence from a players perspective will rise.  We have shown consistently that we are a big club at L2 level and with the crowds coming back (fingers crossed) in a post-Power era there should be a decent atmosphere.

I'm not expecting to hit the ground running but if we are stable enough through to January then we could be in with a chance, Wellens had a good Jan in his first season and came close to flirting with the play-offs, Bolton were nowhere near going into January last season and got automatic promotion on the last day.

It'll be difficult and will take one hell of an effort to get us going but I have faith we can do it, even a mid-table finish should be seen as a success given our current position, we really need the fans onside from the get go, even if it is a tough start.

Of course :pint: like at school when two captains had to take it in turns picking a player to make their team up leaving players like Roland from Grange Hill last😀

Lets hope not, I'm sure Clem would like his own appointment rather than who Power appointed

If we're still in the football league this time next year then we'd have done well. Putting a side together this late is far from ideal. Not to mention whether the club will even exist or not which isn't a given.

Hearing Clem will be at the game tonight. Told been in country for last 2 days. Love to think it’s true

If true that's surely positive news? I doubt he would be in the country if the takeover wasn't going to be ratified. Hopefully he is here to sign the relevant paperwork and get the business off and running.

This isnt the case I am afraid as he cant fly outside of Aus, not until next year.

Thanks for the clarity. Presumably he has a representative that can do whatever is needed to be done?

Why?  :sherlock:

Yes he has people and lawyers in the UK

Any idea when we will have news?

Not sure if your question was serious but because of Covid there is nothing going in and out of Australia. My wife's sister lives in Sydney and says Australia only has a pathetic 9% of the population vaccinated so they are beyond slow! (Like the EFL!)

BBC Wilts understands that Shares have been transferred. Our season begins now :)

 :beers:

 :pint:

If we don't have a manager and Chief Exec in place by 5pm Morfuni Out!

YES!!!

https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/19455700.swindon-town-ownership-battle-said-clem-morfuni-takes-control/

So pleased.  New chapter begins.  And boy, do we need a new chapter.  The last one was rubbish.

And Lee Power - if you love the game of football, do it a massive favour, pls.  And never go near another club again.

  :no: I met him myself at the Supermarine game, and apparently he arrived on sunday - so why the false info ? smokescreen ?

Fair question

There was work to be done - if it was known generally that he was here then it would have potentially generated a distraction to getting the job done…

Better off not saying anything then rather being informative

Think things were on a 'need to know' basis. I wouldn't read too much into it.

When’s he due on the Pod Rich?

How?

Either the trust board weren't told, not a great start on openness from Clem.

Or they lied/breakdown in communication. not a great start on openness from them.

to be honest it's done now. it doesn't much matter, and they did correct themselves on Twitter.

what matters is going forward. I think we need to give everyone some slack to get on with getting the job done in these first couple of months, then I'd expect to see more open communication.

hopefully some announcements today. CEO, manager etc??!

How is Clem not being open - he attended a game and took questions?
I don't really care where he is at any given point in time, or who he told, that's his business and idle gossip.

What we do need is openness around the decisions made on behalf of the club and the accounts etc, not an announcement every time he has a shit.

 

Once the new owner euphoria dies down I don't want to keep seeing him mixing with fans etc I want him quietly going about his business with regularly updates through media outlets and the odd live phone in on BBC Wilts etc.

If he takes us forward and runs the club correctly he can run naked through Old Town with the GW Reds for all I care.

he'll be in Australia a lot of the time. The CEO appointment will be key

We just need to knuckle down now and let Clem appoint the right people to take care of business!

He has been bitten by fans here already recording bits and giving out info when they shouldn't. I imagine he genuinely didn't tell many people at all he was coming over to avoid getting hopes up

I'm sorry to pick this up (it was the first post I saw when I checked this AM and it resonated with thoughts last night) as you rightly say its over now, but why does/did Clem need to confirm his every movement with the Trust, it's not like it was some joint consortium with the Trust taking over merely they were supporting him and thus to a greater or lessor degree were ITK.

I note from SM last night there seemed to be a hell of a lot of people who knew it was happening yesterday or today, which merely came across as a bit of back covering mystic Meg sort of shenanigans 'I obviously knew what was happening I just couldn't tell you'.

Its done now, moving forward along with the process lets get a CEO and manager in place and they can start to sort out the footballing and business sides in parallel, it would be nice for Clem to formalise some manner of engagement with the Trust just to provide updates as and when but generally they need time to just get on with it.

Agree, he needs to start as he mean to go on, will full openness and transparency which I actually believe he will, I'm hoping this goes as far as transfer fee's for e.g. as well, unless the other club don't want it out in public, but then we can be given a ball park figure.

You hope communication goes from top to bottom, so from Clem to his CeO to the new manager, even the DoF.

I don't want all communication going through the new board he is creating with the Trust and Don Rogers, I want staff to be communicating through the press, the web site, in interviews etc

It is essential that the fans feel respected and listened to, this will help the feel good factor return and will help matters on the pitch as it is going to be a season of struggle but if fans are behind the club it will help in those real tough games.

It will also help for sponsorship, I believe the club does not have a marketing dept any more so staff will need to be appointed, but if fans are behind the club then that feel good factor will spread and local companies will be more willing to put money in for sponsorship

There is also the FA & FL investigations yet to complete, we need to hope the club does not get punished by either of them, not sure when they are likely to conclude, maybe sometime after the court case is completed, although knowing how slow the FA / FL are it maybe just in time for next season.

Can you imagine how much more 'IS IT DONE YET?!?! WHY IS IT TAKING SO LONG?!?!' there would've been had we known he was in the country from Sunday? No harm done at all, people clutching their pearls unnecessarily...

This is probably laughable but were the club still giving the option to sign up to receive official texts about news direct from the club?
Would be nice not having to trawl through social media and just receive a text straight from the koalas mouth.
Was anyone receiving texts this past year before it all hit the fan?

It didn't take look for some people to look for the next thing to moan about - now it's "why didn't we know he was coming/why did the Trust lie?" - I think that answers your question right there..

I was aware of people that had been informed that he was coming in - but what benefit would it have brought to have that out in the public domain?  The fanbase was already in the reoccurring loop of "when is it happening > tomorrow > it didn't happen tomorrow, you are bullshitting ITK'er > when is it happening > it's imminent > sick of hearing it's imminent > When is it happening?"

It would have just been another case of rinse and repeat..

Just enjoy the fact that Power has gone and look forward to the next few weeks of hopefully getting our club back on track - as a fanbase we can sometimes be guilty of disecting things down to a granular level.  I get that everyone has become exhausted by the past year of no information or clarity, but let's stop for a minute, breath and enjoy talking about football again.

I think the point is being overblown, as I said it's what happens next that matters.

however, why bother taking the effort to refute it?

it doesn't matter much. let's move on

I miss Audrey  :( .He'd be having a field day.

Or even a picnic ;)

Maybe he's away getting that tattoo  ;D

Haha. My focus will be on the CEO and if Clem wants to appear at any point then he'd be welcome.

For what it's worth. I got wind that Morfuni was in the country via the 'Clem Texters' sending cryptic DMs to people because they can't help themselves.

Members of the Trust, including the lads who run the socials, simply did not know that he was coming into the country.

His attendance at Supermarine could have been reliant on the EFL approval coming through etc.

Completely blown out of proportion.

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/july/club-statement/
There you go. It's a wonderful read. Lets hope it comes to fruition.

Good read.

Brilliant statement

I mean if you're looking for a certain sentiment in a statement from your brand new owner, that pretty much hits the nail on the fucking head.

Well, he talks the talk. Time will tell if he walks the walk.

See: Fred Elliot re: Simon Cox http://thetownend.com/index.php?topic=23492.0

That is a vision statement. It tells us what his vision is for the club, but it's grounded in the reality we are in - no false or wild promises. It can only be good.

A wonderful statement - we're all behind you Clem!  ;D

 A statement on a Wednesday. Is he not aware of tradition? Clem out  :D  Great read and rallying cry to the fans. Onwards and hopefully upwards
 Let's make sure we pack out the CG. COYR
 

How refreshing it is to read something realistic, positive and inspiring.

This is only the start but for the first time in 15 months I’m looking forward to following the club that I’m hopelessly in love with.

Here’s hoping that the fans noe return in their droves and support a new era.

#COYRs #inClemwetrust #nomoreliesfrompower ❤️🤍❤️🤍❤️🤍

A very positive first statement. Pulls no punches with the challenge yet is ambitious and realistic.

Let's hope things stay that way, I suspect they might. I like the cut of his gib.

Quite happy with that statement, reads well at this juncture. Off we jolly well go once again.

heres another thing to moan about. turnover is vanity profit is sanity. not sure why he brought it up in his statement

apart from that  8) got to love what he has to say and you just hope that this might be the start of something good. its going to be an exciting few weeks of news and a very busy period for the club. looking forward to a minimum top 7 challenge  :beers:

If you do go in the Town End Clem, don't stand downwind of The Flash  :)

It’s a good statement and presses all the right buttons for me. It’s going to take a long time and a lot of money and effort but it could be an interesting ride. Looking forward to seeing how it goes. My first season was 62/63 and have seen lots of highs and lows in that time. Hoping for another ‘high’.

Well, if he does half of that he'll be the best owner the club's ever had. The very best of luck to him.

Wow, what a statement of intent that was. I love this guy already.

Who’s Zavier Austin?

Superb read,  at least communicating with the fans and on the face of it, it all sounds good.  Happy we're over the first hurdle, can't really see him in standing in the Town End handing out prawn sandwiches at half time but like the idea.

He was here under Power

https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/13585526.town-appoint-three-new-non-executive-directors/

Here he is.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xavier_Austin

Great statement of intent.  So refreshing.  Ambitious yet measured/grounded.

Club's been punching below it's weight for most of the 30 yrs I've been following it.  Handicapped by poor leadership/ownership.  We've been the poster child for badly run, lower league clubs since well before Power came on the scene.  Give us 5 to 10 yrs of stability...just doing the simple things properly & astutely, and we're going to fly.  It's time.

Wow what a statement, I am absolutely ready to fall in love with this football club all over again.

He’s mine I tell you, mine. Go anywhere near him you bitch and I’ll scratch your eyes out.

Clem is doing a press conference at the CG tomorrow at 4. I assume (makes an ass of u and me) with the new manager as well possibly?

Yeah, I had a wry smile at it, although I suppose its shows some clout and if you have built up that sort of company from very little brag all you like.

Watch the EFL now clobber us with a points deduction....

Well at least his new Chief Exec. That's going to be the most important that the moment so sort out all the crap...

Yes true.

Surely the men at work classic man down under needs to be played loudly over the PA system (if that's feasibly possible at the CG) prior to kick off of home games this season?

I'm sure the Town End will also come up with some brilliant Clem inspired songs as well.

it was yesterday at Supermarine.

he did smile, no vegimite sandwich on offer though

New CEO will be announced and introduced at press conference yes.

 :D

A fantastic statement and a bold one. Let's hope it all comes true. Love the financial transparency bit as that's where the trust will be built between club and fans.

A beautiful statement.

I could be about to become a Morfuni Moonie.  Certainly a proud fan once again.

Nice to read a statement without the lies surrounding intermittent "Well Shaun"s.

Agree with that completely :D

I did post yesterday that Supermarine were making him feel welcome with that song over the PA.

Very impressed and also very impressed with the new CEO too.

A really forward thinking excellent appointment IMO.

Who is it? Didn't see it mentioned by name anywhere.

Hope people's bubbles don't burst if we make a slow start on the pitch. They need to remember how little time we're going to have to prepare this campaign. We'll need to keep the faith, hold Clem to those bold promises and hope that it all comes good in the medium term.

It's Jeff Bezos isn't it?

It's a woman isn't it.

tease

Is it Bathford?

Yes hold him to them, but also fans need not to be pricks about things. The first year at least is going to be constant fire fighting and there are going to be decisions which probably won't sit entirely within his laudable words.

Club and fans need to learn to love each other again, faults and all.



Sent from my SM-A125F

Of course!! Cheri Lunghi

No, no, no.  Managers job has gone, Lynda Block.

No, surely this is the time for Sheena Easton.

I know some fans like the idea of having the ear of the owner, but these clem texters need to stop, there will be a lot of p'd off fans if this continues as they will inevitably leak anything he tells them like how the name of the new manager was being bandied about before the bookies had even go wind of it, I thought this had been sorted when previously he was recorded talking to fans.

Nothing against anyone who has his number and clem responds but there is a thin line between talking football and leaking private chats and info.

He is now the owner of stfc and things will be different.

This is not the first time I've heard the fans that have his number bigging themselves up (or some of them, I think there are a few).

Sorry to be a bit negative, it just annoys me a little.

Now back to the celebrations.

Today has been delightful. I wasn’t aware how much genuine stress this whole ownership saga has caused me until it became clear it’s resolved, feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

I’m perfectly happy to give Ben Garner my full support. His time at Rovers was obviously a torrid one, but he is clearly a considered choice and hopefully one that’ll fit right into the philosophy that Clem appears very keen on bringing to the club. By all accounts he’s a very highly considered coach. It goes without saying that the last time we had a ‘highly considered coach’ at the helm it turned out to be a disaster but that was working under a completely different regime, so I won’t be comparing the two going forward.

Happy happy happy

All positive stuff so far. I've spangled a bit too much money this month on booze, powder and fanny. Reckon clem could shout me a few 100 notes to help with the rent at the end of the month? I think that would really be the statement of intent that the fans could get behind.

I think you and your dealer might have to come to an arrangement this month. I expect that SBC and the rent on the CG might take precedence before your rent gets a consideration.

Ben can just sell some of his clothes, he doesn't always need them.

Win lose or draw that first game at The County Ground is something i cannot wait for. Turned a bit of a blind eye to everything related to the club in the past few weeks but now feel like Tom Hanks in Castaway at the end where he sits down at the table for a huge feast.

Welcome Clem and co.

"We'll keep the red flag flying high, cause Swindon Town will never die".

Do we now need to learn the words to ‘Advance Australia Fare’?

Not sure if mentioned but I hope Lee Peacock and Steve Mildenhall still have a role at the club. Maybe more understandable for Mildy as a Swindon lad but Peacs has shown a proper love for this club ever since he left.

Bit of a club legend for me.

Mildenhall is name checked in the press release as staying as goalkeeper coach.

Peacock not mentioned, but no reason to expect he won't go back to his role with the u18s.

The new CEO is a man who many (if not most) Town fans know, he has been introduced to staff already as the new CEO and its a very good appointment IMO, I feel almost every fan will probably be impressed with him.

I won't blow his cover by announcing it ahead the official announcement but have told a couple of people on here and I am sure it will come out before the official announcement tomorrow anyway.

Definitely.

Devlin?

Sent from my SM-A125F

If it's Wray or Fitton someone needs to make sure there is a dual signature required on cheques and contracts.

I see 10,000 average attendance this season.

I've had my first glass of wine this evening, so I agree with you.

 :soapy tit wank:

When do the tickets if we're allocated any fir scunny go on sale?

Peacock did have another job lined up so he must've bailed on it to stay here. Even more admirable.

Wasn’t one of them deeply involved with Hungerford?

I always thought Fitton was ultra-conservative (some might say sensible) and it was nice guy Jeremy who spent money like confetti?

Fitton has some good ideas, but if Reg were still around I am sure he'd have to mention how Fitton was responsible for the disbanding of the AGM and diluting the fans shareholdings, which ultimately engineered the situation to where we find ourselves today I guess.  Wray was indeed the spunk it up the wall chap, although I think Fitton did alright out of the Charlie Austin deal didn't he?

I led to understand he did do ok.

He’s still at Huddersfield. That would be quite a coup. Perhaps not! Nicky Hammond is out of work….

Digby?

Didn’t he do Powers bidding to get the training ground?

He's been involved with marketing and other things, I think you're right about a role in the Highworth project.

Just finished playing football at Foundation Park, who walks onto the pitch to play after us? Welcome Mr Clem Morfuni.  This morning I bought a football club, this evening I am playing football.

Fair play..

Brilliant stuff.

I know we are all happy campers today but there is absolutely no chance of that happening

Was he any good at soccer though

OK OK I've worked out who it is.

It's Neil from the Office isn't it?

9,999 if you don’t then.

I'll hazard a guess at the return of Nick Watkins....generally very popular with fans, a very good CEO, though challenged by the di Canio episode, an STFC man through aand through, and he has remained much involved, via the Trust, in the moves to purchase the County Ground. He would be a very safe pair of hands.

Blimey it is like being 8 again on Christmas Eve.

Mark Isaacs

Jason Isaacs

I was just about to post the same Nick Watkins is my guess and would be an excellent appointment

Your all miles off.

Michael Miles? He's dead, isn't he ...?

Would be well happy if that were the case.

I can't wait for the first home game, it will be a brilliant atmosphere and my 5 year old lads first game :)

No, that was Nicholas Parsons.

Some one who is reliable with money and can be trusted ;)

Yes but you’ll have to open the box to confirm that he took the money.

It’s Lee Power isn’t it?

Bong! :)

(If you're old enough to remember the Yes/No interlude)

Mrs. Lee Power.

It's Miles Jupp isn't it? That's a left field appointment!

Bong! again :)

(If you're old enough to remember the Yes/No interlude)

Might be 😉😁

Rob angus

Don Rogers.

I would love that, he’s hilarious.

Fuck it, the penny has just dropped. Might be worth getting someone to go to the bookies for you…

Brian Hillier.

Nick Hammond, wants to come back to club that made his career

To be fair he's done a good job since claiming to be a goalkeeper

Michael Doughty.

Banbury hand feeding people here

soapy tit wank.

interesting appointment. very interesting

Either the penny has dropped or I’m massively wrong.

name that tune

I only saw him warming up, I didn't hang around to watch him play.  I mean, I appreciate what he has done and all that, but..

You aren’t one of the Great Western Stalkers then?

No.  However Ginginho was there and I did see him tying his shoe laces for him and giving him a rub down - make of that what you will..

Well assuming SR was being sincere about DOR dropping a hint - I’ve based my (probably wrong conclusion) off the fact it’s someone who can be TRUSTed?

I played this evening at foundation park and couldn’t believe it when I saw Clem on the next pitch! Way to shy to go and speak to him but what a bloke! Saw him play in goal for part and pull off a cracker of a save

Maaaaayyybeeeee

The only thing I noticed was he had a way better tan than anyone else out there..

I forgot his name but this suggests the chap who is the chairman of the trust, he was with him at the Supermarine game

If then it is who is being hinted at, it sounds like a very interesting appointment.

I don’t really wanna know
How you garden grows

Or

...you’re gonna be the one that saves me
Coz after all, you’re my Wonderwall

??

Not the chairman, again going on what is purely guesswork on my part.

I respect the work the Trust has done but not sure I'd be impressed with the appointment of one them. The role is so vital I would have liked it to be someone with experience in running a club at some level. No offence to members of the Trust. It seems people are hinting at what to me, seems to have been the least impressive Trust member I have seen speak. Wait and see I guess.

It would be quite a statement regarding openness if somebody on the Trust board was made the CEO.

There is a difference between openness and being a CEO and leading the club.

I said nothing about his ability to do the job. My point is that it would be quite a statement FROM CLEM about being open to go appointing a board member of the trust. Regardless of whether or not anybody thinks he's up to the job - he's still on the trust board.

And I wasn't replying to you anyway.

Also would it be the right appointment for the club when there maybe more experienced candidates out there

Would they be able to stay on the Trust board*

*if the person in question is even on the trust board.

This could be a lot of hypothetical discussion over nothing.

If the CEO is the name I’m hearing from the trust he will be very astute appointment hes been operating at director level for years, he’s a brilliant communicator and would have great connections for sponsorships and link ups with other business's.  He’s also a huge Swindon fan, I’d be happy with his appointment.

Hopefully:

‘Owners, everybody needs good owners
With a little understanding
You can find the perfect blend
Owners, everybody needs good owners
We’ve got Morfuni, he’s Swindon’s friend’

‘Red Armyyyy, we travel up to Carlisle
Red Armyyy, we travel down to Sutton
Bringing all the noise we’re Swindon Town’

Hopefully not:

‘Cheap Aussie plumber
You’re just a cheap Aussie plumber’

Nor this one, which would have to be sung with a massive dose of hindsight:

‘Did you think we couldn’t see you coming
With your diggers and your plumber’s wrench?
You promised a lot but that was just rot
You’ve brought debt and a rotten stench’

James Phipps?

Very funny that people clearly know who the new CEO is but are still treating it like a covert signing from a Premier League club.

Those not happy with the appointment can always get a petition to reinstate Steve Anderson.

I'm hoping we have a reveal video like those Mansfield ones....

https://weareswindon.co.uk/james-phipps/

Well, I for one don't have a clue who it could be.
I read a couple of pages back Michael Doughty named, loved the club would love to see him come back.
If anyone wants to actually say that would be very much appreciated.

Recommended to Clem via the trust.

Certainly knows how to make money. I know him and is house is huge. So if anyone wants to 'tarmac' his driveway....

His name has been mentioned over the last few pages…. And it’s not Miles Jupp.

As for who the new CEO if it's who I've been told it is (and I have no reason to doubt it is)

a) It's Clems businesses so its his choice, considering what he has spent and the liabilities he inherits I cannot imagine he would appoint based on sentimentality.
b) Any link to the Trust is irrelevant it the guy has the skills to do the job.
c) Considering the fractured relationships to both the fan base but also the wider community appointing a known fan with great local business links (and the business acumen to be CEO) seems quite the well thought out masterstroke.
d) having read the guys bio he has, a job in the real world, I assume issues of him having to work notice from that have been addressed in some manner?

As with manager, DoF etc, once again seems to be a considered and thoughtful appointment based on ability rather than cronyism, which makes a nice change.

https://twitter.com/truststfc/status/1071033034315587589?s=21
My guess if it’s not Phipps.

Well if it is this fella then I would tend to agree he is a very competent man indeed.

Regardless, as with the coaching and on field staff, we get behind everyone appointed and get on with it.

Doesn't help that the name is not known, i reckon many are thinking about different people at this point.

Onwards and upwards!

I'll be glad when it's made public who it is just to shut up the so called in the know individuals. Oooh look at me I know something but I'm not telling you. Hahahaha who gives a shit we'll all find out soon enough anyway.

They care obviously. No doubt enjoying the smugness that comes with it.

Fwiw my guess is James Phipps based on the Trusted comment and his previous / current employment status (based on a quick google)

Not ITK and purely guessing. Just didn’t want to be the first to put the name out as it hasn’t been mentioned up to that point.

It has now multiple times

I don't know who it is, but I'm not saying why I don't know. So there, go me.

I am not claiming to know anything by the way i was just reading into Banburys post as thought it was cryptic. I will say one thing though is i know James Phipps relatively well and unless he goes back on his promise to never invest or work at the club he made to his wife i can't see that happening. He is a very successful businessman who wont want or do the day to day stuff answering to someone else  

A shame you're not saying why you don't know as now you've left me not knowing why you don't know😀

I’ve had several people PM me to tell me I am wrong.

But did they tell you the right answer?

Just in general?

Being the CEO is about dealing with the important stuff the chairman delegates to you and the less important stuff you delegate, however, you seem to be of the opinion that he won’t go near the club in that capacity so that is that.

We will know by lunchtime, in other words it is Christmas Day.

Classic.

Seconded....

 :D

I was given the same name.
I couldn’t tell you if it’s the right answer though but assume it will be.

I don’t think I’ve ever been wrong on TEF before, ever in history.

And if it is not you could have told us. If it is you’re now formally in the smug ITK club.

I’ve become everything I despise in a poster.

Wrong & smug.

That has to be more applaudable than being in the TEF clique club😀

That is the TEF clique club

I'm sure they do care as they are Swindon supporters. In the know usually goes like 'here's what I know but I can't tell you who told me'. Not, 'I know but I'm not telling you'. I find the latter laughable. I don't care who it is to be honest. It'll be revealed soon enough anyway.

Do the Borg shit? And if so out of what?

Understand what you are saying Arriba, there seems to be a bit if self satisfaction going on. If someone thinks they know but is not going to suggest who it is then don't bother posting anything at all.

Does the name you've been given full you with confidence?

I literally know nothing about him other that’s what is on the Trust website

Goes without saying he hasn’t run a football club before.

Nah, nanites innit.

So, there is no such thing as a Borg Anus?

I assume Bjorn has one. Certainly has enough pants to cover it.

Someone is going to crack and tell us 😉

That's it. The self satisfaction that they know stuff but not telling you anything except that they know stuff. It's been the same for the takeover/manager appointment etc. Not just the CEO. I find it funny

Maybe there's an anal implant?

I wouldn’t openly say I knew for fear of all the negative stuff that comes with disseminating info on this thread, particularly as sensitive as this. Joining the dots together it became apparent, when speaking with people I know who would have a greater understanding of the complexities of this takeover and who do not frequent this forum or generally get involved with STFC that Clem either was or would be in the U.K. before the deal was announced. By how many days I was unclear but it was blindingly obvious that a deal was close and no way could I conceive that the big man was still in Australia orchestrating this from that far. Certainly when Friday came and went I think I knew it was imminent even when someone suggested that he couldn’t leave Australia, which I thought was a horse shit comment.

You identify the the jigsaw pieces and arrange them as best you can. He didn’t look jet lagged at Supermarine I can say that much.

Anyway irrespective of who the CEO is today and who knows or do not know they would have been thoroughly vetted and more than capable for this role.

You will all find out soon enough 😀 believe club are announcing new CEO at around 10am.

blimey! they aren't anging around are they!

 :beers:

Congratulations on your promotion James

Good luck to Callum Rice.

haha - that genuinely made me laugh!!

👏👏👏👏👏

,🐮

Not Steve Murrall then?

Was he the guy with the mid life crisis haircut in Jeds little gang?

Surely if one of the trust was CEO they would have known Clem was in country

Surely it’s Watkins again. 

Yeah. Think he owned a B&B

I’ll go for Rob Angus based on nothing but a few rumblings here and there.

Borg Anus

Loathed Strangers new sponsor and Rich is the CEO

Hotel please.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2jHHvAXdow

 :D

BTW as we have appointed a DoF can we now assume that Jewell has left, it was never actually confirmed was it?

Reminds me, I must watch Spinal Tap again.

The thing i want to know is how do you go about joining this Clique that is mentioned and do you get a membership card? 

No card, but a special tattoo.

with 'all the things you said' enscribed?

No just ITK in chinese.

Etched into an image of your favourite cheese.

Can we stop all of this fucking "I know something you don't know" and just post the fucking name.

But it has been.

Quite a few times too

...and in anagram form

Is that tattoo scratched in using an old school compass point and indian ink, like the bad boy rebels did at school?  If so, how do i apply?

........... But I'm not allowed to tell you !!!!.

It's 10.17 and nothing published.

Clem out. This is ridiculous.

What’s refreshing (no pun intended)
I’m visiting the official site for the announcement.
I’ve not done that in years.

I think the website will get refreshed more when they have someone employed again to do it

Welcome to the new webmaster - and the 2 Bens

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/

They have obviously got someone pretty good on media now, as the statements of yesterday were really well written, also someone is doing socials albeit just to point back at the website?

I understand that statement had been prepared a few weeks ago so it better have been good! :D

So When is the new CEO being confirmed?

Rob Angus according to one twitter post  :sherlock:

4pm today alongside Clem I understand is the set time.

5pm was the time given for the press conference by Total Sport Swindon after an original announcement of 4pm. Questions can be submitted here: https://twitter.com/TotalSportSwin/status/1417867727570669571

No dairy based questions submitted as yet I don't think.

I think the date of his acceptance into the catholic church is not relevant in this case?  :hmmm: ;)

Presser is now 5pm. Good luck to whoever it is, hardly a tough act to follow given the minimal engagement we had from the last CEO. Exciting times.

Cheers, last thing I heard was 4pm.

I spotted favourite cheese there, the one I liked was 'If I sponsor the club will you let my cat play'?

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/july/new-ceo-appointed/

Well, it's certainly a statement of intent for improving fan engagement, isn't it?

Easy to be cynical about it but it's certainly a positive sign. Don't know much about Rob Angus' background but there can be absolutely no doubt that he'll understand the fan's perspective.

A rare example of a footballing poacher turned gamekeeper!

My source has been sacked.

Kick me out.

He's been a director at Nationwide Building Society for years. His profile picture on the NBS intranet is him standing in Real Madrid's ground, wearing a Swindon top.

So you're saying we should be getting loanees in from Real Madrid any day now? I reckon Isco should do a job in League Two.

Hooray. Now the ITK ones can not tell us the players they know we're going to sign....

:D

He might not have experience running a football club but, other than that, he does have bags of experience in business, finance, and managing teams of people. Could be a good appointment - and one that highlights Clem's commitment to openness. The Trust would be the enemy to shady characters, but Clem's literally put one of them on the board. That makes me feel a lot more confident in him.

Anthony Grant.

My mate's brother used to have kickabouts with a very young Isco when living in Spain apparently.

Don't know anything about Rob, but having a trust board member as CEO is a positive move

Wow its Rob Angus, never saw that one coming. :D

Not sure if still board member but resigned as Vice Chair yesterday.

https://truststfc.tv/rob-angus/

My mum works at Nationwide and likes him, so that'll do for me. Angus in.

Here's Rob's LinkedIn bio for anyone who is curious...

 :clap:

He's probably better qualified for the job than a lot of football CEOs with experience are.

It's a brilliant appointment with Clem having the fans in mind.

This feels like a dream at the moment. Let's hope it lasts?

Also the fact that he has resigned his position as a board member of TrustSTFC indicates that both Rob and the Club have a keener feel for good governance and (potential) conflicts of interest than, for example, most of our Government including its lawyers.

Long live TrustSTFC and long live STFC :pint:

Before I retired I worked for nationwide for many years. In my role I got to know most of the executives and would be aware of issues or reputations
Rob had a great reputation. Not only for being open, friendly, approachable but also his intellect. Unlike most I never heard a bad word about him.
Although no experience about being CEO in football, this bloke will learn very quickly.  A superb appointment. STFC through and through.
If the club want reingagement with the fans then they'll get it.
This bloke is the real deal.
Give him some space to bed into the role. Allow a couple of early errors and I think he will be excellent.
Given the fucking idiots Rob has had to deal with at nationwide, hell do the relationship side really well.
Great appointment by Clem and don't forget by nature, im a miserable negative cynical old git.

It’s really all about who is pulling the strings in the background.

Words from the man himself https://truststfc.tv/robert-angus/

I have banked with Nationwide for over 20 years and never had an issue with my current or savings account. Angus IN!

Seriously though - reading Rob's bio, what a great appointment. A wealth of relevant experience (those accounting skills are going to be tested over the coming weeks) and an STFC fan with a vision of a sustainable community club. :clap:

I worked with Rob at Nationwide also, as already stated he is the real deal and a brilliant bloke too.

This appointment is up there with the best appointments we have made (not that we have a great track record) ;D

This is all really happening, isn't it?  :)

Got to be a chance of Nationwide returning as chief sponsor, you would think. Not just because of the obvious connection, but because it would be a good time for them to seek to ride the wave of optimism that will be around the club for a while, at least.

a very interesting appointment

'one of us' as CEO. A bloody difficult job but at least he's stfc through and through

obviously he can't be 'one of us' as closely now.

a very positive appointment. going to be a steep learning curve is my only worry. But I don't know the guy, he may lap it up
-------
edit: great to hear Chalkies!

Looks excellent move.

One question, probably a stupid one - is he quitting Nationwide, or is CEO kinda extra-curricula/part time (I would have thought it needs to be FT given the shit that needs sorting)?

Notwithstanding, for the first time since probably the Pox game last year I am starting to feel better or even good about the club. All the noises seem incredibly positive and genuine (and the Aussie seems to be able string three words together without saying “well, yeah, no”).

The future is bright

He has left Nationwide. I believe that was being sorted yesterday, and that was why it didn't get announced until today

Cheers - and good to hear.

Wonder if he is taking a paycut. Probably on good whack on nationwide. CEO at a football club doesn't offer the best security!

Hats off to him. Bet his dreams have come true.

Interesting appointment, my concern is the zero experience of running a football club which is totally different the finance world, it will certainly be a tough job.

Now the appointments are done, I find we have no one with experience of dealing with other clubs on football matters, especially transfers, while in the short term it is not really any issue but in the longer term a bit of experience does help so other clubs with more experience do not take advantage, even down to arranging loans and who pays what etc is negotiation.

Except for the DOF, you mean?

I don't imagine many football club CEOs have much experience at FCs when first appointed to their roles?

Rob is amazing guys, the Trusts loss is STFCs gain. He has alot of experience over the last 3 years in getting the GG purchase to a point of signing and has learnt an awful lot a out how football clubs operate over these years and add that to his business acumen and finance experience at board level he is the perfect candidate, he loves STFC so add that in. Really wonderful appointment  

Such a good feeling about things at long last.

LESS POWER. MOR(E) FUN(I)!!!!

He was working as a scout - 2 different types of jobs

Great reference.
Should provide a bridge to the Supporters that has been drastically missing.

Nick Watkins had no football club experience when he came did he? He worked out alright.

I don't know the ins and outs of scouting but I imagine there are elements of having to be involved with other football clubs. Or do they literally go back to headquarters and say 'these guys look good, maybe you should give Jim Bob at XXXXX FC a call to see if he's available, what price etc'?

I've literally no idea how it works but I imagine Chorley has a bit more involvement than you give credit for.

Football experience is less important than business experience with the position i feel.  The club has been crying out to be run as a business rather than having a Mafia boardroom which is what we have seen over the past few years.

Let Rob focus on the business with Clem, leave the Ben's and the coaching staff to focus on the pitch, with Chorley being the conduit between upstairs and downstairs.

Should work well and is well overdue at Swindon Town FC

I think you're right

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/july/new-director-of-football-and-head-coach-appointed/

This is my view as well. Surround yourself with the right people to run the football and commercial side etc.

It is a very astute appointment by Clem. Good luck Rob!

Every single one of the new appointments is going to be working in sub-optimal conditions from the start, have to remember that. Good to have some optimism back, though.

It will be interesting to see how long the current goodwill on social media lasts if the season starts with a sustained run of bad results.

Superb appointment - we are BACK!

Wow, colour me impressed.

Surely must should realise we’re going to be pretty bad until November time. After that hopefully fitness and team bonding and we can climb the league

Nobody is expecting a good season. Are they? Staying in the efl and sorting the shit out left by Power is the hope I would have thought

You're probably right, but we have until the end of August to assemble our squad.  Why not ride the feel good factor? Today it's July and sunny, so I'm optimistic.  They may change, but for now I'm looking upwards.:-)

The hasn't run a football club bit doesn't concern me.  He's a well-regarded senior Finance professional.  Background may be in FS, but his time at the Trust will have given him a great window on the football world.  He will adapt.  I've taken my own Finance skill set from one industry sector to another several times in the last 10 yrs or so, so I know it can be done.  He'll be fine.

Got a text from someone quite senior at nationwide who worked with Rob saying what a great appointment it is.
Also had a text from a rovers fan mate laughing their cock off about garner.
Time will tell.

Donkey - That was me in optimistic mode  :D

the Rovers fans I've talked to make Garner sound very Luke Williams.

But they also had a 'director of transfers' (!) above him.

I'm sure we'll make our own mind up over time

I doubt anybody's expecting a 'good' season.

I expect a slow start, only for things to improve once the team catches up in terms of cohesion etc. It would be unfair on the gaffer for us to expect promotion this season, but I do expect to see that he's the man for the job next season.

I've been reading the Bristol Rovers forum and a few seem to think things were starting to come together for him before whatever happened to change it all. He might just be one of those who needs time and he's fortunate here in a sense that fans are likely to be patient for a while considering the circumstances.

But that patience won't be infinite, and neither should it be. I don't know where the line should be drawn, there's too many variables, but hopefully we won't find out.

You must be seething you didn't get the call.  :D

Sounds very encouraging. He’s clearly a very well respected and talented individual, and have no doubt he has the skills to succeed based on his career to date

His biggest challenge may well be the fact that he is a long standing fan, and can’t let that interfere in his ability to make tough decisions. Don’t go full Jeremy Wray (although seeing as he’s an accountant I doubt he would!)

 :D

I estimate that the goodwill will have evaporated by Sunday 12 September 2021.

I've just remembered something that my old mate, Reg, would have remembered: St Clem is the patron saint of blacksmiths. St Clem was the name on the lips of Wiltshire agricultural rioters in the Captain Swing riots of 1830. I shall have a drink tonight, courtesy of the Radical Stroud Reg Smeeton Memorial Cup, and toast St Clem. This is, as Reg would say, a very good rune.

Love it!

Was initially concerned about whether Rob has the experience for the role despite his track record in finance, but the more I think about it, the more excited I am about the combination of a fan-run club à la Exeter etc with the huge boost to community engagement that brings, but with the financial backing of an apparently genuine benefactor.

I have Pompey friends who were sad when their Trust had to sell to Eisner in order to compete longer-term. They can only dream of being allowed this far back into the running of their club.

Nah, we always batter Port Vale at home  :D

Nope!  🙂

Miss Reg.  Wish he'd been around to see this.  And comment!

At least we have a reasonably experienced right back.

I love having Reg here in spirit. However he'd surely also find negative aspects in the situation, for instance in the empowerment of the workers only being enabled through the munificence of a capitalist financier. This may be Cadbury-style benefaction, but it isn't seizing the means of production.

Strong reference… my dissertation was on the Swing riots!

Can't imagine Reg would have been a fan of Ben Garner's appointment. He seemed to prefer a more pragmatic type.

Talking of old posters, I reckon there may be an appearance by an old favourite pretty soon!

 :hmmm:

very well done sir!

Apologies to all for going off on one ( or 2 or 3), a couple of weeks away and with things now settled I hope I can behave myself.

Anyway, I still see our resident dullard hasn’t managed to post one single positive comment on the events of the past couple of days. How he must hate it!

Yay! He's back.

We've missed you (and your occasional strops)  :D

Good to see you back sir. Things are looking much more positive since you went away :)

Any player signing rumours?

Welcome back Aud

Great post! Pure 'Reg'.

He would have been frowning on this week's outbreak of optimism and urging a much more cautious approach from the fanbase.  :)

Reg infected everyone before passing, that much is evident.  Talk of saving our status as a Football league club being the target for the season!

Garner would have rubbed him up the wrong way I imagine, and talk of developing the youth - not that he'd have been against it as such, more that it would not be how you get our of League two at the right end.

Reg would have constructed a correlation between league position and takeover based on past history to predict where we would finish in Div 4

We have never been promoted with an Antipodean owner.

It hadn’t gone unnoticed.

I will be interested to see what's happening kit wise . I assume the away kit will be yellow with green shorts

As it stands, we could be bringing a whole new meaning to the term "football strip".

I say this every year but I would complete love a bespoke designed in house Swindon Town shirt which isn’t a copy & paste template job loads of other clubs either had the previous season or will also have this season.

I assume that it doesn’t make much sense logistically or financially but I’m no artist or designer but I reckon I could come up with the best home kit we’ve had in 10 years in 10 minutes.

But the dgi kit was in house wasn't it ?  Not a great precedent if so.

Get some potato shapes and a few 5 year olds and we can go retro

yay, Audrey is back.

you've not missed much :)

Is JBZ now being a parody of himself?

Eh?

Poor cunt isn't even getting any bites. Makes you wonder why he bothers.

What bites? I am not sure I understand. No post today seeks a bite

I wonder if he is 'Tony Roll' on twitter if you have seen what he says on that platform?

The communication is shit, we have not had a statement for 4 sodding hours!

Sorry, I see yellow shirt and automatically switch to Oxford hate :). Thought you were on a wind up


yeah yeah, Aussie. Slow reader here

Green and gold of our antipodean friends, yes

It would seem appropriate to announce a couple later on at the news conference. McKirdy, Tavares, Grant.

No sign of either Brett, Brett, Brett, Brett Pitman, Brett Pitman or Grounds, then. Not that I’m bothered.

Here’s one for the stato buffs. Notwithstanding our Div2 status but would we be the first club to be promoted, relegated and promoted from outside the top tier in consecutive seasons?

Rotherham and P'boro may have done it fairly recently?

Last night's OSC panel indicated that Grounds may have been isolating, while BP exercised his right not to train with the club after he wasn't paid. I somehow doubt he'll be back now, but I could be wrong. Grounds may be shorter of options.

Was Grounds isolating all season?, explains a lot.

Doncaster possibly.

Apparently Clem is being interviewed live on Sky Sports in the next hour.

Excellent.

  Christ,  must have taken you days to think that one up !!.   

Does anyone know if there is anywhere to watch the Press Conference? Conscious you can listen on BBC Sounds.

Not aware of any live stream unfortunetly

I don't think so but as you say it is on BBC Wilts live to listen to.

Just turned on and caught the last 20 seconds of it  :doh:

Sky normally repeat things ad infinitum though...probably be on about 30 times between now and 6.00 tomorrow morning...

Tranmere?

Errr, no. About two minutes actually, after my son engaged me In conversation.

Hodgetts really isn't very good is he.....

He really struggles on any question that is not 'on the pitch' related

Garner speaks well, they seem to really carefully putting the coaching team together.

Fuck football, what is his fucking favourite cheese FFS.

I enjoyed that. Clem knows his limitations it seems at things like this and was brave enough to put himself out there on all those interviews not long back.

Rob Angus will be the main guy we hear from and he spoke excellently. I genuinely hope it works out for Rob.

Would love to know if A Grant was training today. I'm guessing all the guys on trial these past couple of weeks have been spotted from the new regime? which bodes well.
 
Excellent to hear nearly all their targets are still available and in many ways, if the money is there, we're a more attractive proposition now than the day we got relegated.

Grant was indeed at training again today.

Thanking you.

Had been waiting to hear something about the 'umbongo'.  This just came up on the Adver timeline:

"5:32pm
Clem says he will have to put "quite a bit" of money into the club to sort things out.

Angus says club is working as fast as possible to clear first part of transfer embargo issues - in terms of unpaid debts etc.

The second part of the embargo is to do with the club taking the hardship fund. That may take slightly longer, but the first section is the priority to give Garner and Chorley chance to strengthen the team and help Town survive in League Two."

I know it’s probably all the excitement of the last few days going to my head. But Wollacott, Hunt, Baudry, Conroy, Iandolo, Lyden, Payne and potentially Grant isn’t a bad starting point for a first XI.
5 of them won this league just over 12 months ago. Fuck staying up, we can be in and around the play offs!!

What's going on with Pitman? he's still contracted to us right? or did we breach that contract by not paying him?

What they are saying to the media about staying up being the ambition, is probably way different to what hey are saying on the training ground. Lower expectation, relieve pressure.

Tbf, Payne said he’d stay if he thought we’d be challenging. That will be a good pointer, I think.

There was a cryptic comment from Garner on the Pitman and Grounds situation...."we are contacting the EFL about it".

All positive stuff, its great to hear how they are improving the medical and science depts, its always things like this that helps attract players.

I'm sure the players are being told this seasons ambition but are also being told the longer terms aims, so they know it may be a hard season but hang in there and be part of the joy ride in helping to improve on the pitch

I missed that. interesting.

Has there been any mention yet about Lyden going off the other day?

Haven't listened to Hodgetts much, was he such a negative chippy sod with power?

Sent from my SM-A125F

Led to believe that Brett, Brett, Brett, Brett Pitman, Brett Pitman refused to come back to the club until.he was paid. Grounds was self isolating but he should have returned and he hasn't
Suspect they want to speak to EFL in order to see where the club stands given their non return.
Believe the issue with Lyden was down to feeling a tight hamstring

I think what that meant is finding out whether the contract options the club exercised (Grounds? Why?) were still valid - I don't know if the players had a say in whether they could accept or reject the extensions, or whether the club's failure to pay them and their withdrawal of labour meant they were invalidated anyway. I think that's what they're trying to unravel now.

I’m sure I read he felt tight, so wasn’t worth risking it, should be okay for Saturday?

If they don't want to come back then thats fine, let them drift of to NL

I think somebody has hacked JBZ's account, he seems way too positive

Listened today. Liked what I heard. It seems clear to me that Morfuni just won’t get involved in the day to day, which is fine, and he’ll leave that to the others - rightly so. I got the feeling he’s along for the ride, and hopefully some ground development. Garner spoke well. As did Rob Angus. We’re now a fan led club. Who’d have bet on that when the orange hats were out!

I thought that the suggestion that the away kit should pay homage to Australia was on brand, yes

The last time I had a season ticket was in the Premier League season and I gave it to Reg gratis after watching us lose 5-0 at home to Liverpool on my birthday. But I think I'm going to get one this season. As I write this, I have, opposite me, Reg's collection of Victorian pennies and entrance tickets for STFC v Roma, 10th September 1969; League Cup v Burnley 4th December 1968, and the replay v Burnley.

Whenever I go to Pattaya, there's always STFC news when I get back.

Guess where I'm going tomorrow? (I'll give you a clue - it's Pattaya)

Anyone know where i can get a link to the press conference plz - i tried wiltshire radio site but couldnt find a link !

Found it !  :nod:

Link?

This is a beautiful testament to friendship, and clearly a friendship so deep that you could countenance Reg considering the runes ‘very good’.

For the TEF, I suspect his optimism would have been tempered somewhat.

No, and that was poor, really time for him to be put out to pasture. The Loathed Stranger Crew and Vic's 'On The Sofa's' have shown him up for the out of date dinosaur he is. He was dreadful today.

After relinquishing our 3 season tickets in Row R of the DR after the play off with PNE we have decided to renew two adult ST for the coming season as soon as they become available to new applications. We hadn’t abandoned the club, no way could we ever do that but the uptake of games began to gather pace during Wellens tenure (as well as away games) and we really thought we were going places. Sadly last season showed up how the structure of the club was built on sand as if we didn’t kind of know that already.

Like most of you I’m sure, we’re so excited about how things have panned out this week and you know what, if it all goes pear shaped on the pitch due to the mountain we have to climb and we get relegated to the NL we’ll still have two ST for that campaign too!

We are on a journey that has the potential to eclipse the ride and rise up the leagues we had when Lou took us to consecutive promotions which Ozzie and Glen then continued to the premiership, oh with an improved ground to boot.

Oi tink e be off to them thar Rovers to the west.

I’d imagine he’s the polar opposite of what Garner wants.

Really odd wasn’t it. So out of touch with the mood of fans. Ready to remind Garner of his past failings. No sense of the relief and optimism no just on here but anywhere you look. Time for a new front man.

I actually really enjoyed listening to Garners answers on his time at Rovers. Andrew Hawes went either deeper with the questions and it made a really interesting interview. The talk of the town is worth a listen for all the interviews

Talk of the Town:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p09pzxt5

BBC Wilts need to be rid of Hodgetts. He has no clue. So out of touch. Sheridan’esque.

I couldn't find the Hodgett's interview - Is it still available?

Shaun Hodgetts seems to have become the new TEF punch bag...there had to be one with Power out of the picture I suppose...

Bring back Brunel FM

I hope he reads the forum and has insight

I think he is probably taking the brunt for the BBC on the whole to be honest. They have been absolutely terrible the last 6 months through this

Nah. Disdain for his public journalistic efforts have been simmering for some time.

BBC can report facts and there was plenty of that in recent weeks.

BBC Wiltshire Sport did the absolute minimum compared to other departments within their organisation and beyond. BBC South's explanation of the situation would have been a good start, they even got Fjortoft involved.

Thank goodness that, when we were seemingly on our knees, Wilts Sport had a lovely chat about Euro 2020 links to Swindon Town.

Compare Shaun Hodgetts questions during the press conference to Andrew Hawes' afterwards, totally chalk and cheese.

I don't think it is anyone 'picking' on Shaun just his journalistic style hasn't moved with the times.

I'm looking forward to when there is a Loathed Stranger podcast with the new incumbants though.

A new beginning of sorts coming up for the fans that's for sure.
But has there actually been any official word from the EFL that restriction free attendance for home & away fans will be good to go?
It will be good to experience the non socially distanced wait to get out of the upper reaches of the DRS again.

I've previously thought Hodgetts got a lot of undeserved stick.

I know the BBC has to be impartial. But to my mind  what's looks like a considered editorial policy to ignore the situation and only relay the Power side (at request?) has really fucked me off.

I get he has to protect the BBC commentary rights. But he also has to do his job. Scared of losing his 'understands' special relationship (or his kneecaps)?

I am not expecting him to be 'with us', but I do expect him to as equally be  'with them'.

Funnily enough I was going to also mention the special relationship with journo Alan Nixon. I see he has literally just tweeted 'couple leaving' which I suspect are BP to the Greggs tasting factory and JG to the glue factory. I've asked him about incoming but I imagine now his mouthpiece has gone won't respond.

yeah PPP and Grounds to be sure

Nixon I don't care as much. National press that in a normal season most people will flick over

BBC Wilts are supposed to be a local community radio

I'm not so sure, the whole point of BBC is to be impartial and give both sides a fair hearing. If you compare and contrast Hodgetts first interview with Clem to his last with Power there is no comparison.

Clem actually got a grilling, which is as it should be. Power was just allowed to talk utter contradictory nonsense, with no scrutiny. I know why, because Hodgetts was worried about losing all his 'BBC Wiltshire Sport understands' exclusives. But it's still not how the BBC should behave.

Hopefully new lot will give all local media access rather than just have one favoured pet.

indeed.

though I do think the BBC is the best medium for Comms

We need a Shaun Hodgetts thread. 200+ pages until he finally leaves BBC Wiltshire.

I used to stick up for Hodgetts.

Used to...

I agree to a point, it's certainly best for local, non-social media using fans. But I would personally like to see the in house comms doing more of the news dropping. Then the rest of the outlets can take it from there. Rather than everything getting leaked to one source and then appearing on official club channels.

the Official Supporters club have tweeted that they are looking for 20 volunteers to tart up the CG on Monday from 9am. I know some on here that are Swindon based said that they would help out so thought I would mention it here. I'll try and find the link to the form that needs to be completed.

Tarted up?  :sherlock:

Sweeping, tidying, cleaning, washing seats etc.

Hi guys if anyone can help on monday then please complete this form
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfEIecjtC2a1lRY5vgYY3pWvejyevfST0PXrm_HQM5smhdB0Q/viewform

Cheers

would love to but... work

^ this

How big are his hands FFS? (Maybe a distorted image?)

(https://i.imgur.com/tpJZgx9.jpg)

Do we need a keeper?   :)

Australians need big hands to hold their 'that's not a knife, this is a knife' knives

You great galah batch  :D

I don't know Shaun personally but Power had a habit of blocking anyone that crossed him media wise... Hodgett's was walking on eggshells... he's not an 'investigative journo' with eyes only on the issues and had to balance our plight with ensuring Power didn't break all ties with the media considering they had to deliver match day commentary

Interesting comments re. Shaun and BBC Wilts... I must admit, I've probably not listened to their coverage for 9 months or more until this week... I was doing my best to block out all things STFC related. Wonder what the deal was with him and Power then?🤔

He didn’t want to be the next Moosehead.

heads, shoulders, toes, toes

[quote="@MacPhlea]I don't know Shaun but Power had a habit of blocking anyone that crossed him media wise... Hodgett's was walking on eggshells... he's not an 'investigative journo' with eyes only on the issues and had to balance our plight with ensuring Power didn't break all ties with the media considering they had to deliver match day commentary [/quote]

I get that in part. but even to the extent of only retweeting club communication while ignoring the other side?

also holding a fans phone in at short notice to conflict with the OSC.

I know I'm not the only one to notice that.

But what's done is done. as I say, the BBC is still very important for the club

Interesting to read the article in the adver about season tickets, Rob did mention they were looking at what to do about last season’s tickets, and their target was to get us up to 6000

Hmm, Fitton was the last one to drop prices in a similar attempt to boost numbers, and he ended up disappointed in the takeup. Wonder if the new regime will generate sufficient goodwill to get there - it would be quite an achievement. What's the current level? About 3500?

6,000 sounds ambitious.

If we couldn’t get 6000 in league 1 with the offer of £200 season tickets with similar goodwill levels thanks to ousting Diamandis I can’t see us getting close to 6k in league 2 unfortunately, especially in the current climate.

The power of Power’s demise is a powerful marketing tool.

even so

I'll do my bit as I'm sure those that also can will.

we haven't seen the offer yet mind

To be fair we bought season tickets that season, even though we couldn’t make midweek games, and have had them ever since.

Wasn’t planning on renewing for the upcoming season, but probably will now

Does Buttsy's in Soi Bukahao still do that great Liver and Onion with Mashed potato?

I doubt it exists anymore. Everything's been shut for months.

Shame. I ate there a few times as it was c100 metres from Lucy's Massage, which my good mate Ian used to own with his Thai girlfriend... Lucy. 10 years since I was there :-(

Have fun!

The man had his tongue right up Powers ass even right at the very end. Him being moody with Clem doesn't surprise me. He gets what he deserves.

What a refreshing few days. Very happy with the CEO appointment, and I thought he spoke well yesterday.

Intrigued by what is planned for season tickets, as surely the 6000 target wouldn’t have been mentioned without some sort of incentive (I’d be surprised if we get near that figure but I like that they are aiming high!)

I hope a certain non-Exec director has also moved on, to put an end to the days of the local convicts getting the red carpet treatment in the boardroom.

Re. Hodgetts. It’s only when you listen to Vic Morgan, Andrew Hawes and our very own RP interview players and staff that you realise just how poor his questioning is. Throw in the perceived Power bias and it’s no surprise he gets some stick. A lovely man, though and I hope it doesn’t get too personal.

May have missed it but I see the home kit has been released in the club shop, no sponsors but not sure if it will stay that way.

Presumably they will want a sponsor for the revenue, but that will take some time.

Impressed at what is a unique Puma shirt. Like the pinstripes, not sure i'm a fan of all the mini old badges. But overall looks good.

(https://www.stfcdirect.com/siteimg/prodhires/2424-94.jpg)

Those stripes will look a long way apart on some fans  :D

I'm the same, loving the pinstripes, but the white patches and the badges just seem to me to be puma trying a little too hard. Overall though as nice a home shirt we have had in a while. I am going to buy either home or away for the first time in a while I reckon so will wait and see what the away one looks like.

Love it, already pre-ordered. Clem can take all my money.

I like it, not an identikit with no imagination, it's unique to us.

Best home kit for years, pre-ordered too.

Really like that kit  ;D

No sponsor?

Yet...It's only been 48 hours since Clem did his statement

I'm certain there will be a sponsor, I imagine Clem etc. were in discussions with Puma before everything was sorted and just really needed the kit sorting out, once a main sponsor is in place it'll be easy to add it on once it starts being made for market.

Fair enough...like I said previously, I'd not listened to BBC Wilts for months until yesterday.

Agree, looks great and for once, whoever it is that says every single year without fail, "Oooh, it's just another generic template"...can't say it ;)

Really like that.

Trying hard to retain a degree of balance about the new ownership and not go full over-expectations but not a step out of place so far!

Both kits were selected before Morfuni arrived.

I once managed to get a friend of mine a new Everton shirt before the FA Cup Final (which was the first game they would be wearing it) before general release, from a Scout who worked there.  It didn't have a Sponsors name and looked amazing as a result.

I'm liking this one, may need to get one sent Par Avion.

Killjoy.

Clem hasn't just arrived  ;)

You're welcome.

It looks like he's at the Kassam😀

Hopefully a white and red alternate because that would look great, although it would require a third kit if we play anyone in red and white stripes.

Exeter😀

I haven't bought a shirt for years and barely wear the retro ones i have. Will put my money down for either the home or away here though.

Sharp shirt, the dogs danglies.

I fucking love that. Although deliberating about buying one of the remake Spall ones too!

In the words of Lloyd Christmas “We’re really doing this Harry!!”

And Stuart Mac!

Yes I want an old SPALL one where are these for sale please?

I think this design was a SPALL.

https://theterracestore.com/products/swindon-town-1989-home-retro-shirt?fbclid=IwAR0tuNh683NoXzDzvpHsabDxzbYJnOplDhJZKYSDOuJ-NgIEId4gGJ9xRa8

I keep on meaning to buy one myself.

I've got an original purchased in 1987 (It is Spall...although they sold them without the sponsor's logo back then for some reason)....and I'm pleased to say that I've slimmed down enough recently to be able to get into it again....happy days  ;)

Reissues

https://spallreissue.myshopify.com/

New shirt reminds me of the Macari first season.
For that it’s a big yes from me.

I was thinking the same… first season I supported Swindon. I still have the shirt somewhere

Hell yeah, it does.

I would like one of these

Your link defaults to 4XL Batch  :)

Season I started going, I should get one.

I don’t know Shaun but…I was stood within earwigging distance of him at Supermarine.

He’s a fan, and up for this.

Has modest expectations, wary of further skeletons, but optimistic - his words - ‘time for change’

He's been around since the early 80's and is as big a fan of STFC as us fans but he also has to have his professional head on for His employers so not sure why he's taking so much flack

Perhaps he can pull his head out of Lee Powers ass. He spoke to Clem like dirt whilst making himself look the fool. Don’t bite the hand that feeds. He acted like a muppet, deserves to be regarded as one until he shows some respect IMO.

I'll reserve judgement until I have listened to the interview and then post my thoughts

I’ll eat humble pie.
After saying how much I hate the identikit template rubbish and would love something unique- a few days later we get something unique.

You’re welcome Clem - who I can only assume made this decision based on my opinions on the TEF!!
Best home shirt in the last 25 years. Top 3 in the last 30.

Now, an away kit same design but in blue and black would be awesome or even green with yellow lines for the Aussie connection.

Ordered the new shirt - first time I’ve bought one for donkey’s years.

Hope it has more luck getting here than the one Berniman sent!

Me too and I don’t normally buy kits. I hope this shirt sells by the bucket load as do season tickets when they go on sale.

Haven’t bought a shirt for about 10 years now but sorely tempted this time around, both because it looks great and because of a desire to throw a little extra support behind the club. Will wait to see what the away kit is like before choosing. Guessing it’ll need announcing soon as it’ll be required at Scunny.

I’ve just bought two!
Roll on the away kit.

Just noticed that the Blunsdon House Hotel has offered the club free use of their gym//training facilities for 3 months!

Great gesture!

Same here.

I wonder if Town will go for the two kit or three kit option?

I do like a two kit mix and match combo, so black shorts and socks with any of black, blue or green shirts would do for me.

I’m very much enjoying the daily good news releases, it’s such a refreshing contrast to the past few weeks.

Season ticket money is ready to go so I’m looking forward to today’s news.

I will get the shirt for me and my lad, but will wait until after payday, hopefully the club shop will be open then to save £5 on shipping!

What size should I go for, usually buy XL or XXL T shirts depending on where I buy them. I don't want the wetsuit fit  :)

Puma shirts are always on the small side from my experience, so err on the side of caution and go bigger

3XL  :cry:

I have just ordered one. I was relieved to note that they go up to 5XL

Do you have a grey beard?  :sherlock:

Yikes!  First sight of new away shirt:


https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/july/202122-away-kit-release/

https://www.stfcdirect.com/2122-kit-training-wear/2122-kit/2122-away-kit/

Interesting...Will the shorts be blue as per premier league season and referencing our history as per old badge on home shirt, or have we gone full down under?

Are we Oxford?

I've changed the link to the OS one now. Pretty sure we've had a yellow away shirt previously and, with green shorts, there's not much similarity to that lot down the A420!

Despite being (wrongfully) accused of seeking 'bites' on the away shirt, I got that right then.

And the shorts

Love the away shirt and will be investing.

I'm going to hope both are still available at the club shop in Sept/Oct when I'll likely get to a couple of games.  I have both GK shirts from last season so not sure I need another yellow at the moment, I'd like to make my mind up 'face to face' on it but I think I'll get one of the other.

Strewth!

I can recall three yellow away shirts in my time, the most recent in the Prem season.

I still have the blue shorts that went with the yellow Loki shirt

I'm a full kit wanker with that kit, thanks to a former colleague who used to work at the club. You can't wear the shorts nowadays as that would constitute indecent exposure.

_ _ _ _

LOVE both kits. Couldn't give a shit that Oxford wear yellow, there is a clear Aussie theme here!

Had a yellow shirt throughout the 80s with it being the 3rd for a few years.
Then the GWR one first couple of years of the 90s before the Loki one mid 90s

I’ve still got the GWR and Burmah ones. Oddly, the Pox factor never entered my head at the time.

I tried mine on a couple of months ago as I needed something to wear for my walking football debut. The elastic had perished and made a horrible crunching sound as I pulled them up. They still fitted though.

Last time I tried mine on, there was a Partridge type incident.

The home kit is sexual in football kit terms. Cracking nods to Towns history, similarly in the away kit.

With the away kit, seemingly Luongo will shortly be announced...

I expected people to be up in arms at us wearing yellow due to the obvious connection with our friends down the A420. Some people even kicked off when we had the Boca Juniors style away kit a few years ago just because it had a yellow band accross the chest but that doesn't appear to be the case this time. I think it's fine especially as it's an obvious reference to our new owner's home country and as has been said we've had yellow as an away kit a number of times in the past.

We played in yellow and blue in the PL. Nothing new.

It is gold rather than yellow

I need to say this… Clem is the real deal. Had his ear for a few mins. Very much a true gentleman that values supporter influence.

More yellow than gold if you use the wolves shirt for reference

Love both the new kits, presumably they will ship out once sponsorship sorted. Anyone else think it’s likely to see Nationwide return? Would be a massive coup for the club if so.

If the CEO can use his contacts at his former workplace

Fine with yellow.
Less fine with yellow & blue.
Premier League the shirt was yellow and green & the shorts were a very light blue so just about got away with it imo

I forgot about this kit in the late 70's

I'd love a sash, probably on an away kit, I think they're very cool.

Yes same here

Dare you to post the pic and face reveal your mush at the same time

The premier league one was, if I recall correctly, basically the Brazil kit, yellow shirts, pale blue shorts and white socks. Probably as a result of our not giving a shit for defence style of football at the time.

It was, although we had to play In Sheffield Utd’s away socks in our first Prem game.

With apologies to our more northerly fans...but this was a cool kit:

(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/12ygq3dCqx4/maxresdefault.jpg)

I am very partial to a sash, I have to admit...

Was a bit shocked by the yellow and, personally, that shirt won't be for me.

Reassuringly, I see the shorts are due to be green, so the players will be more Norwich City/Soceroos. Please, no yellow shorts though if green doesn't work for any particular game.  The very pale blue of the Premiership would do.  

Cannot begrudge Clem having a Socceroo look so long as it's not confuseable with the threesiders.

The home shirt looks great.

The Kit was all the previous owners decision making

Cheers Shrivvy.

Thinking about it, it would have been a bit vain of Clem to be giving much thought to the choice of kit given the urgency of other considerations.

Regardless ...   Oggy, Oggy, Oggy!   Clem, Clem, Clem!

Racking up the bills with an (admittedly nice) bespoke kit?

Away kit a bit of a laugh at clem?

Sorry if i'm covering old ground but does anyone know the latest on a possible points deduction heading into the new season or when a decision is likely to be made?

I doubt that one gets resolved until the Standing vs. Power case is sorted - I'd imagine the EFL are hanging off of that to save effort in gathering evidence.

Doesn't point deductions usually come after months of not paying players and also Admin

There’s absolutely no chance of a points deduction for missing paying wages.

The other stuff . . .

Anyone getting involved in the fans kick about on 3rd?

I am along with my bad knee and terrible fitness

Invite Geoff the Ref to officiate  :pint:

Fan phone in with Clem and Rob Angus on bbc wilts tonight at 6pm

I nobody asks what his favourite cheese is then what's the point?

Nice one as that could have been easily missed!

Yeah, cheers for the heads up.

FOOTBALL : A new era at @Official_STFC - Your Questions Answered by chairman Clem Morfuni & chief executive Rob Angus - 1800-1900 tonight on @BBCWiltshire #stfc

If this is truly the case - why on earth did Power choose yellow and green of all colours.
Also, if this was Powers call why wasn’t it announced weeks ago - so he could have pocketed any kit sales?

Don’t doubt you’ve been told that but it really doesn’t add up logically (that’s not to say it isn’t still true)

He spent 4 years at Norwich City which was arguably where he enjoyed his 'best' football. Perhaps it's a selfish nod to this? It's not the first time we've had a largely green away kit under Power also, the beautiful green and white one from a few years back springs to mind.

Can't tell you why the colours but the reason for late release was the bill was not paid to Puma so they did not hand over the kits until we paid them last week

I figured as much with regards to why the kits weren’t released till after the takeover

Again, seems odd that Power would go to all that trouble to choose a kit design he had no intention of paying the bill for.

Proper own goal because the kits look ace and Clem will get all the credit for them!

I believe the kits were chosen before he was ordered to sell the shares.

It will be Hawes interviewing won't it? I'll be turning off and looking for the post interview transcript if it is Hodgetts.

Note: If it is you Hodgetts, show some respect for the fella that has saved our club as well as our new Exec.

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/july/don-rogers-to-become-our-official-club-ambassador/

Great to see.

Like that

New shirt sponsor perhaps?

https://twitter.com/Bartercard

That's ace 👍

Sent from my XQ-AD51

That'll do, get those new kits out in the wild!

They sponsor Oldham too i think

Confirmed

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/july/bartercard-announced-as-our-new-principal-parter/

New sponsors on the shirts on stfcdirect.com too

The whole package on both shirts is very good IMO.

I'm not happy with Clem and the team, all these new positive announcements, need to slow down we are not used to this and we need to be able to keep up with the announcements, and take it all in, can we go back to statement Friday

Well as the club picks itself up and things begin to get straightened out, so does the club crest which had fallen to a very sorry state - nearly broken.

There's still a lot of work to be done but with the arrival of Clem into the station, the Robin has been resuscitated and looking much brighter. Power has gone, most of the stinging nettles have disappeared, the year of establishment is nearly reconfirmed and whilst the football is still not quite fully pumped up yet, Town is once again on the verge of;

"Salubritas Et Industria"

Health & Industry indeed!

Enjoy the rebuilding process :)

Looking good, albeit with all those who had preordered before the sponsor was confirmed I had hoped it would be something like buttplugs.com?

Sent from my SM-A125F

You can get that LNER shite off that for a start.....

Sent from my SM-A125F

Haha! As I say...there's still a lot of work to be done. As things progress, we could be looking at a fully "healed" badge by Christmas :)

(https://dildoking.de/static/version1627369547/frontend/Clickpool/default/de_DE/images/logo.png)

There were some classic tef badge efforts back in the day. Fuck knows if they still exist anywhere

White socks don't forget as well. Full Brazil.

Yellow/Gold & Green = Australia, fine
yellow and green shirts, blue shorts and white socks = Brazil, fine
blue with yellow band = boca juniors, fine

yellow and blue shirts, blue shorts = oxford not fine at all. sadly we still managed to make that mistake in the 80s. Lets never repeat it.

Is ti just me, or does Rob Angus look like Willem Dafoe?

(https://media.giphy.com/media/yhRnl31SmMec/giphy.gif)

no doubt how he looked when offered the CEO job!

Has it been announced how long the contract is for our new Head Coach ?

To follow on from that, do we actually have an Assistant Manager / Asst Head  Coach / Cone Gatherer or is that a bit last Century?

haha. He's the spitting image isn't he!

Ticket prices frozen.

Kid a quid being introduced

Can't knock those kids prices, very accessible.

Bit of explanation on the noon cut off for tickets on facebook too, it's a covid thing to avoid crowds gathering if they don't have to. Has come from above and not a club decision.

Great to see this page updated!

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/club/whos-who/

Good to see Lee Peacock is also still at the club..I know he was taking training of the 1st team pre-takeover, but hadn't heard much about him since.

Marcus Cassidy still listed too, guess we're sticking by him then. Hopefully he has cleaned up his act a bit.

Is Academy Administrator Megan McLoughlin any relation of Alan?

He’s been back a while now. Hopefully seeking help for his issues as he’s clearly brilliant at his job.

He has, i believe he had proffessional help

i've just been over from Stroud to visit the County Ground again and call at the Beehive about a wake for Reg. Spoke to three Academy youngsters at the railway station and all smiles as I congratulated them and said, It's a great feeling. We've got our club back'. A walking football scouser mate in Stroud said I should write something about what 'We've got our club back' means. I dunno if we could start a thread about that. But I'd love to collate and write something about this. I'm going to start this afternoon while it rains.

Brilliant innit, couple of queries, following the death of Mike Spearman and noting how (so far) the club seem to be going back to their roots and community who they might offer the president to, the Don maybe?

I thought Jack Deaman and had gone? See Seamus Brady still listed thought he was another of Powers circle?

Sent from my SM-A125F

I'd take "updated" with a pinch of salt. They've still got Mike Spearman as Honorary President, Jack Deaman as Strength & Conditioning Coach, Seamus Brady as Academy Head...

So I'm not sure that's a guarantee of who's still in post.

Claire Swindell moved onto Scunthorpe last month .

Yeah Horlock also mentioned that. I admit I didn't do forensic analysis but I did notice Seamus Brady and think it was odd. I guess there is still work in progress being done.

Wasn't Don Rogers going to be honorary president or did I dream that?

Wasn't really a name that sat well with our club.

My one ever bit of ITK, the new Head of Fitness Alun Andrews, has already left the club.

It is almost as if it never even happened.

Announced last week - Club Ambassador and on the advisory board

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/july/don-rogers-to-become-our-official-club-ambassador/

The kieran freeman of fitness staff

Highlight for me is for the first time ever I'm logging into the official site two or three times a day to get up to date news

As in the person Power employed?

Yes, McGreal brought him in and he didn't leave when JMcG left, this is no surprise as Garner will want his own man in.

aaaah. I see

We start with a blank page.

Whilst feeling sorry for recent Championship interlopers, Yeovil, this was an interesting article on Premiership Brentford's journey from League Two.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/58137450+

Looking forward to forging our own destiny as we re-start once again in League 2.

C'mon Swindon :pint:

I’m taking Clem at face value here, seeing as, to date, he has done exactly what he said he would do.

The fact that he has said he, personally, doesn’t need/want to take money out if the club gives us a big advantage over most other clubs financially.

When you tot up all the income streams - dramatically increased with Clem taking over - I’d be fairly certain the club is more than self sufficient. What could propel us up the leagues even faster is a good cup run. Lincoln’s fortunes have been on the up off the back of 2 such runs.

Saying that, I wouldn’t be surprised to see us crash and burn tomorrow. As per.

I imagine Clem will be at the CG on Saturday continuing his charm offensive and then he is surely back to Oz and leaving Aberdeen Angus in charge going forward?

He said he's due to go back reasonably soon but doesn't think they'll let him back in!

I believe Rob said on the OSC phone in last week that Clem was here until mid September

Oz have some of the strictest limitations on who can enter (or leave) their country at the moment. Reckon Clem could be here for awhile.

This.

On the Loathed Strangers podcast, he did say Rob would run things day to day as he just didn't have the time. It sounds like he has his fingers in lots of pies, not just Axis & STFC. I'd imagine he will oversee things for a few weeks or so, get the basics in place, oversee the transfer window & ST sales and then keep an eye on things from afar.

Ben Garner on the Supporters Club Facebook panel this evening at 7pm

Was he on early? I turned on at 7.30pm and he wasnt there.

It's available to watch here NMH

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnfipIi61Is&t=1s

I think it really bizarre that we are not using squad numbers 13 to 21, given there is no way we expect 9 more players to sign.

Is this conspiracy guy onto something?

https://twitter.com/callex03/status/1425066535144591361 (https://twitter.com/callex03/status/1425066535144591361)

Seems entirely feasible.

Thank you. I watched back. Thought Garner spoke very well.

A Friday Statement!

https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2021/august/club-statement---zavier-austin/

Wow, what an absolutely positive statement by Clem. Can do nothing but applaud him.

What was the attack on Zav Austin all about then? I've not heard anything about that before.

Can guess

Yeah It's clearly down to our ex-owners as Clem wouldn't have mentioned it otherwise.

Top statement, I assume the attack on Zav Austin has some sort of connection to the club or something for it to have been raised in such a way?

As an aside is there a Mrs Morfuni as I suspect that might also have some bearing on how much time he spends in the UK?

Reading that gave me goosebumps. Hadn't quite appreciated the gap there was between ownership and fans. I knew it was poor but i guess you just get used to it. What a difference a bit of communication makes. The whole club appears to be pulling in the same direction on every level.

The bar was set low but Clem has already exceeded my expectations in terms of how he represents the club.

This appears to be a Swindon Town we can be proud of and i'm all in for it.

Are we saying the attack was STFC/Power related?

When i saw him at the posh friendly his arm was in a sling.

 There’s a fella on the Rochdale forum who has been fantastic in digging out info on Curran and his associates trying to get their claws into the club. I suspect The Slug is lurking somewhere.

The story behind his Roller is an eye opener. Looks suspiciously like it was used to clean his laundry *cough*.

I suspect you aren't on twitter but there is a lady called Sara who lives in Sydney who has retweeting a lot of Clem stuff and posting information to fans about what is happening at the club. I think she is Clem's wife or GF.

Just looking online and I note that as it stands Power is still a Director of STFC Ltd, Seebeck and Swinton? I assume that will be sorted in due course, but would be nice to see 'resigned' next to Powers name....

I am on that Twitter, I will have to hunt this mysterious Sara down...

For those interested here’s the Rochdale lowdown on Curran

https://www.fansnetwork.co.uk/football/rochdale/forum/275065/the-gifted-rolls-royce--why-morton-house-must-fail-the-efl-test-(part-6)/#21

I'm a little bit cautious about Zavier Austin, he was the one to originally introduce Clem to Power and is the last remaining connection to Power and his underworld cronies.

Perhaps someone who's a bit more informed might be able to comment on his credentials.

I saw this some time ago. Authentic?

https://twitter.com/KieranMaguire/status/1423527003655921665?s=20

SarzSwindon is her name on Twitter.

Here you go:

@sarahg_100

That's legit, but only shows that he has ceased to be a person with significant control, as it stand he remains listed as a director.

Genuinely believe like literally everyone else that Power charmed him and then fucked him over. In the beginning Power had the links with spurs had money coming in and didn't fuck anyone over.

Morfuni, Austin, Standing... there's a whole lot of naivity in this racket, isn't there?

Unfortunately I think you have to give Power credit for being the successful conman he is. I'd say he had maybe 95% of our fanbase fooled initially and it was a case of the pendulum taking 8 years or so to very slowly swing in the other direction.

I WOULD KEEP HIM AS DIRECTOR UNTIL EVERY LAST SKELETON IS DRAGGED OUT FROM EVERY LAST CUPBOARD AND USED AS GALLOWS TO HANG HIM BY

What could possibly go wrong.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/4714579.stm

Goosebumps? Get a grip?

On a serious note though, a incredible amount can be interpreted from that.

ours is Xavier not xaver, and would have been 35 in 2005

https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/officers/6eH2BTXjHjaZ2Je4PNCPxTCoWFc/appointments (https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/officers/6eH2BTXjHjaZ2Je4PNCPxTCoWFc/appointments)

relative, I don't know

Fuck me. That’s jumping the gun a bit quick. Have you fact checked are just assumed?

I’m a Swindon fan - it’s what we do.

Haha - that's quite spooky.  I think ours is the one that owns TES, not the money laundering drug mule, although the latter would equally be a good fit in all this.

Seems he owns a horse or two as well, imagine that could have been the Power connection.  Construction is clearly the Clem connection.

Zavier and Zaver do appear to have lived in the same address though!

A LinkedIn search for Zavier Austin has someone of that name as MD of TES Facilities, from Bromley. The bbc link is also someone from Bromley. I hope it’s not the same person. A club intent on showing good governance and transparency doesn’t appoint a convicted money launderer as a Director or Vice Chairman. I hope I’m wrong. Expect the man of mystery will become public soon.

Edit: the LinkedIn says he was at Dulwich College from 83-88 (if that’s him). If that’s the case then he’s about 50+ now. The money launderer is late 30s. Phew.

Zavier was born in 1970 and this chap would have been born in 1982. So unlikely the same bloke.

but could be a relative.

or not

Google isn't always your friend.

I'm still on the fence with Morfuni and I spend most of my time feeling bad about that. Lee Power has heightened my sense of distrust when it comes to football business.

The PR drive has been impressive, the football stuff more so and I'm enjoying the majority of it all but it will take a bit more that pulling pints and posing for selfies before I can relax.

Could be a junior?

I think this appointment brought some of those same feelings back. I’d like to know why we’re appointing someone connected to Power… or just a bit about him. Who he is, what he does etc would be a start.

10 minutes of Google stalking leads me to hypothesise that Zaver is Zavier's younger brother.  Zaver's wife, Kellie, is also listed at the same company as Zavier.  I'm going with them being married based on the fact they appear to live at the same address and be around the same age.  Zavier & Zaver have both resided at the same Bromley address before.

The presence of Zavier Austin is what is preventing me jumping aboard the Clem Morfuni fun bus. It really concerns me that this might all just be a case of 'meet the new boss, same as the old boss.'

We know that Austin was an associate of Lee Power, which is worrying enough in the first place. He is also clearly a longstanding associate of Morfuni.

A cursory google turns up an appearance by a 'Zav Austin' in a book called 'Born Gangster' by Jimmy Tippet Jr, which appears to be your standard airport bookshop dross gangster biography, and contains the following passages:

"I was a Tippett and, as Dad said, we Tippetts were 'born to fight'. A few weeks later I was taking on Zav Austin, a bookmaker from Beckenham. I knew Zav already - he was a pretty boy who fancied himself as a bit of a face, one of those who talked the talk but couldn't walk the walk."

"I was determined to obliterate Zav because there'd always been a lot of rivalry between us and he'd recently run off with the wife of a major drugs baron I knew."

"Reggie Kray heard about my fight with Zav and offered to sponsor a rematch from his prison cell. But, before he could get around to organising it, Zav was kneecapped outside a paper shop in Bromley by contract killer James 'Jimbles' Tomkins. This was a warning to Zav to stay away from the drug baron's missus."

Now, there could be more than one Zav or Zavier Austin from Beckenham, but somehow I doubt it, and he sounds like the sort of chap I would expect to be chums with Lee Power.

What should concern any right minded Town fan is that our new saviour has just given this bloke his second glowing character reference and basically said he will be at the helm in his absence.

A known associate of Power with the history above. Who brought Clem Morfuni to the club. And is now being attacked by 'thugs' in front of his children. If this isn't ringing alarm bells I don't know what will.

I'm not saying that people need to wake up, but I do think people need to start asking questions. What is the Trust view on Austin?

I've had lots of worries about Morfuni that I've let be drowned out by the prospect of getting rid of Power (his endless talk of Axis' turnover rather than profit, his UK business issues, the fact that he was involved with Power himself, the glaring lack of any normal reason for him to get involved in our football club etc) but this one just won't go away.

The Trust keep saying they've done their due diligence. I hope that they have. No selfies with Clem for me just yet.

Lot's more than that to be fair. Look at the clubs and sponsors he also done. Even his own mates have taken him to court

Looking at the accounts of TES, I’m surprised he can afford a cat let alone racehorses.

Austin also owns horses. Likely to be the Power link. Let’s hope Curran doesn’t get bored at Rochdale…

You can list them all but I'll still need convincing and I blame Power for that outlook. Ultimately I'll judge Morfuni on his Town tenure.

https://courtnewsuk.co.uk/a-fall-guy-who-helped-run-a-pnds-stlg-12-5-milli/

I'm not registered on this site but 'Court News UK' seem to have the nefarious 'Zaver Austin' as 34 years old in 2005.

Have to say that the Zav(i)er Austin statement has seen the first doubts creep into my mind. Ignoring the imprisonment story from 2005, the fact that he was a colleague of Power's during his reign and is now our vice chairman doesn't sit easily. Yes, he eventually fell out with Power but because of the type of men Power had in his circle the fact this fella is now Clem's 'second in charge' is a bit worrying.  

I hope the Trust have done some due diligence on him and will make some kind of statement soon?

I think that's a fair enough attitude isn't it.

like you say, the proof will be in the pudding

This is the first time under the Clem era that many fans and myself will want the trust to look into this appointment and it'll need some explaining.

It's also the first time that Clem will probably not get away with just this statement and will need to expand further on Austin's past and links. Austin will no doubt have to do this himself.

"Open and Transparent" has been said more than the word Swindon in the interviews these past few weeks.
Anyone within a high position in the club has no option but to be so, or else it undoes everything they spoke about almost straight away.

I wish he would have put the statement out after the weekend although to be fair to him, Clem has spoken about Austin a few times during and after the takeover.

Richard Selbourne wrote a piece for the trust that they tweeted in July.
https://twitter.com/TrustSTFC/status/1421115774853427208

Oh god, instant dread reading the (potential) history...

Not sure if I am reading too much into this but the statement that appeared on the STFC website was not 'introduced' via Twitter, which I believe all other online statements were.  :hmmm:

Lets not judge anything until we get the facts.

No knee jerk reactions, I know we are all worried hes cut from the same cloth as Power but maybe he isn't.

Lets not let this spoil the party until it looks like it has been proved to be spoilt.

I think this could do with some more from the club before the day is out. It's a potential own goal and dangerous for the club/fan relationship. If we've got the wrong man, then say so. if you have a reason to believe that the convicted money launderer, who appears to keep the kind of company that results in him getting beaten up at the age of 50, and (potentially) gets referenced in wideboy guides to drug running, is the best man for the job then please say why...