Shrewsbury Town criticise supporter groups following takeover update plea

Shrewsbury Town says their proposed takeover remains in the “final stages” after criticising fan requests for more updates on its progress.

In a statement, the club’s board said it does not believe “applying public pressure, demanding comments to rumours, or issuing threats is a constructive approach” after supporter groups called for more clarity around the current situation.

An open letter written to chairman Roland Wycherley and published on Monday expressed “concern” at a lack of updates since US businessman Scott Donaldson, who is fronting the proposed new ownership group, received approval to become the club’s new owner from the independent football regulator.

It also pointed to a “proliferation of rumours” surrounding a possible alternative deal, while calling on the League Two club to publish a public statement by next Sunday, October 25.

In response, Shrewsbury rejected the claim they had failed to provide sufficient updates.

It read: “We do not agree with this assessment. On September 18, the club published a statement confirming that Craig Graham and Will Dotson had successfully completed the relevant owners' and directors' tests.

“A further statement on September 25 confirmed that Brad Friedel had also received IFR approval.

“We believe this demonstrates the club has provided updates where publicly appropriate. The process is continuing to move forward and is now in its final stages.

“We remain committed to progressing all matters relating to the proposed takeover through the appropriate channels as soon as possible.

“We do not believe that applying public pressure, demanding comments to rumours, or issuing threats is a constructive approach while the takeover process continues to move forward.

“We are also disappointed that a further letter has been published just 24 hours before an important fixture away at Crawley Town, particularly following a run of form that has seen the team collect 11 points from their last six games, including Saturday’s hard-fought win over Bristol Rovers.

“We will not be drawn into repeated public exchanges and ask that this position is respected.

“We would like to thank all supporters who continue to back the club and recognise that not every matter can, or should, be addressed publicly.”

The fan letter, published on behalf of several groups including the official supporters club, said supporters were willing to issue a more detailed public statement if they did not receive the response desired.

It said that letter would “outline further measures we will consider in order to make clear to you the strength of feeling among the supporters of Shrewsbury Town”.