Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Fans given reassurance
Derek Llambias has reassured Rangers supporters about Mike Ashley’s plans for the club — but the Scottish Football Association is now set to demand answers following his power grab.
Former Newcastle managing director Llambias has touched down in Glasgow after jetting in from London.
Llambias is a close ally of Magpies owner Ashley and is now expected to replace Graham Wallace as chief executive following his resignation.
Ashley, who owns 8.92% of Rangers, has tightened his grip on the Ibrox outfit after the club’s board was forced to accept his £2m loan offer.
However, the SFA is now set to ask the club to clarify the Londoner’s involvement.
Ashley has signed a deal with the governing body vowing not to own more than 10% of Rangers while he remains in charge at St James’ Park.
A spokesman said: “We have written to Rangers and Mike Ashley seeking clarification on the weekend’s events in respect of the written undertaking.”
However, Llambias said: “Mike Ashley has a great track record but I can’t give you any comment. I’d love to but can’t.”
As part of the deal, Ashley has won the right to replace Wallace and former finance director Philip Nash with his own directors.
Llambias is the first arrival, with reports suggesting Stephen Mucklow, another of Ashley’s right hand men, will soon follow.
Wallace was brought in as chief executive by PLC chairman David Somers to lead the restructuring of the club but found himself at odds with football board chairman Sandy Easdale. Easdale has now forged an alliance with Ashley.