EFL with message of luck to Rams

THE English Football League wished Derby County luck in a statement after Clowes Developments completed their takeover of the club on Friday.

In a statement, the EFL said that they welcomed confirmation of the Rams being placed under the ownership of Clowes.

They confirmed that Derby had met the terms of their regulations and insolvency policy and that the Notice of Withdrawal had also been cancelled.

The EFL stated that the Rams will remain under a registration embargo but are allowed to sign new players, if the terms comply with a business plan jointly agreed with Clowes Developments.

EFL chief executive Trevor Birch said he hoped the new owner would bring a “renewed sense of optimism” to Pride Park.

“These past nine months have been a worrying and challenging time for everybody connected with the club, particularly the staff and supporters who have been forced to endure much uncertainty,” said Birch.

“This administration has presented all relevant parties with many and varied challenges, but with the new ownership now in place, the club and local community can hopefully now look to the future with a renewed sense of optimism.

“Throughout this process, it has been frustrating to read a great deal of misleading comments from some people which have either fundamentally misunderstood the remit of the EFL or have misrepresented what the League’s role in the process has been.

“At all times the EFL’s focus has been on securing the future of Derby County whilst ensuring the requirements of our Regulations and Insolvency Policy are met, alongside acting in the best interests of all 72 members of the League.

“I would like to wish everybody at the club, in particular the new ownership and their associates, all the very best for a long and sustainable future and we look forward to working closely together as we head into season 2022-23 and beyond.”