TV chief Dinnage to replace Premier League’s Scudamore
THE PREMIER League has appointed television executive Susanna Dinnage to take over from Richard Scudamore as its new boss.
Currently global president of Discovery’s Animal Planet brand, Dinnage will start at the Premier League early in the new year.
She joined Discovery in 2009 and previously ran its British and Irish operation, which included responsibility for Eurosport.
Scudamore has run English football’s top flight since 1999 but announced his intention to step down as its executive chairman earlier this year.
Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck, Burnley chairman Mike Garlick and Leicester chief executive Susan Whelan led the recruitment process to find the new chief executive and they will now begin looking for a non-executive chairman, as the roles are being split again. In a statement, Dinnage said: “I am excited at the prospect of taking on this fantastic role. The Premier League means so much to so many people.
“It represents the pinnacle of professional sport and the opportunity to lead such a dynamic and inspirational organisation is a great privilege. With the support of clubs and the team, I look forward to extending the success of the League for many years to come.”
Buck described her as “the outstanding choice” from a “very strong field” of candidates.
“She is a leading figure in the broadcasting industry, a proven business executive and a great developer of people,” said Buck.
“Richard Scudamore, having provided exceptional stewardship for almost 20 years, will leave us at the end of the year in great shape and with an excellent Executive Team and Board able to fully support Susanna.”
Dinnage’s appointment will come as a surprise to many as she was not mentioned among the early runners and riders, who included former Prime Minister Tony Blair and BBC Studios boss Tim Davie. HUDDERSFIELD TOWN have confirmed that defender Chris Lowe will not require shoulder surgery after being stretchered off in Saturday’s Premier League draw with West Ham.
Lowe, in outstanding form this season, went down after a challenge with Hammers rival Fabián Balbuena amid worrying scenes in the first half, with fears abound that the German may be sidelined for a lengthy spell.
But specalists have confirmed that he will not undergo an operation, although Lowe will be out of action until next month.
Head coach David Wagner commented: “Since the beginning of the season, he (Lowe) has been in good form and been so reliable, but unfortunately now, he will be out for a number of weeks.
“We will give him all of our support and hope that he comes back as good and as strong as ever. We wish Chris all the best.”
Doncaster Rovers are in Checkatrade Trophy Northern Group G action at managerless Notts County tonight and Grant McCann wants those who are handed starts to provide him with a few selection dilemmas ahead of Saturday’s home league game with AFC Wimbledon.
The Rovers chief said: “There will be changes and an opportunity for some people to get 90 minutes into their legs and they will have a chance to impress and try and force their way into the team.
“We want some positive results to get back on track.”
Rovers are without Paul Taylor, who faces a spell out with a hamstring problem, with Alfie Beestin in contention.
Tommy Rowe will step up his comeback plan with a game for the club’s reserves.
Opponents Notts are searching for a new manager after sacking former Leeds United midfielder Harry Kewell after just 14 matches in charge at Meadow Lane.