New owner aims to bring success and sustainability

SUNDERLAND’S new owner and chairman has pledged ‘success and sustainability’ to supporters in a letter written this week.

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus thanked supporters for their patience regarding the takeover and thanks them for their early support.

The billionaire-heir has wasted no time in rebuilding behind the scenes after what he described as years of “asset stripping.”

There have been a number of changes at board level with Stewart Donald and Juan Sartori stepping down as directors - although they do retain minority shareholdings - to be replaced by Igor Levin and Patrick Treuer.

The letter reads: “It is fair to say the takeover process took longer than we anticipated but I am incredibly grateful for the patience you have shown.

“I have been overwhelmed by the support I have received.”

It went on: “I’m sure you have many questions about what the future holds, but for now I just want to say thank you.

“Throughout the past few years, you have placed your faith in the club during a time when it needed it most. I’m sure there have been occasions when it felt like the club turned its back on you but your passion never faltered.

“Throughout good times and bad you have been the one constant this club can always rely on.

“That support should never and will never be taken for granted.

“It’s important to be honest with you from the start.

“We have a long road ahead as we weather the pandemic, rebuild and recover.

“We will suffer setbacks and something things will not fall our way, but throughout this project we will work with you and together I truly believe we can bring success and sustainability to the club.”