ADAMS DEAL HAS HIT HIS OLD CLUB
CHE ADAMS’ big money switch from Sheffield United to Birmingham City should be music to the ears of his former club Ilkeston – but instead it has led to them being suspended from the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League.
Adams’ old club should be celebrating what is understood to be a windfall in excess of £300,000 after securing a 20 per cent sell on when the Blades signed him in 2014.
The 20-year-old striker has completed a reported £1.8m move to the Championship after continuing to progress in two seasons in Sheffield.
But, in a bizarre twist, creditors have descended on Non-League Ilkeston after hearing they are due a giant cheque from Bramall Lane.
Rivals clubs, former players and the club’s previous manager Kevin Wilson are known to be owed substantial sums – and it forced the league to take firm action.
They cancelled Ilkeston’s opener with Stafford Rangers on Saturday and the Robins have been informed they will not be granted permission to play until their debts are settled. “It is a fact that the club owes money to football creditors, namely clubs in relation to historic matters,” said chief executive Nigel Harrop. “This has come about in view of the speculation about the club now being in receipt of substantial funds following the sale of Che Adams from Sheffield United to Birmingham.
“Debts are now being chased more aggressively and this has resulted in our suspension. But, providing we are able to pay the clubs what they are due, it will be lifted. It was always our intention to settle the debts as soon as possible.”
He added: “It is true that the club will, at some point, receive a sell-on fee. We’re not at liberty to discuss the sum. Some of the speculation is, sadly, way off the mark.
“We will be receiving a lot less than is being mooted but yes, the problem steps from his move.”