Chief gives insight to ‘a new era’ for Blues
BLUES director Edward Zheng has released a message to the club’s fans, addressing recent changes at St Andrew’s and plans going forward.
The club are preparing for Lee Bowyer’s first full season in charge after a turbulent last couple of campaigns.
Steve Spooner and Craig Gardner averted relegation on the final day of the 2019-20 season and another survival battle was only avoided in the most recent campaign when Aitor Karanka was axed in March and replaced by Bowyer.
Since then Blues have seen chief executive Xuandong Ren depart and Gardner installed as technical director.
“We believe we are entering a new era at the club,” said Zheng. “Since Lee was appointed head coach, we have seen the club go through a transformation. It is the board’s belief the team will be better equipped and prepared for the new season under Lee’s guidance.
“We have also welcomed new staff to the club and introduced the position of technical director to assist, not only the first team, but our academy, senior management team and the board.
“We hope that with this new structure in place, the club will operate more efficiently and create a positive culture which will lead to future success.
“New channels of communication have been created between departments and the club is now working together as a unified organisation.”
Zheng stressed the board are listening to voices within the club to inform them on decision-making.
“The board will continue to work with senior management to ensure the day-to-day operation of the club is effective and efficient,” he said.
“We like to hear from our chief officers from every single department to obtain their opinions and suggestions.
“This will allow the board to make the most informed decision on matters that do not fall under our expertise.
“It is not a one-man job. We fully respect our well-experienced staff and will seek their views on all official club matters.’’