Following his successful takeover of West Ham United
today, Eggert Magnusson has issued the following
statement…
"I am both delighted and honoured that Terry Brown and his
colleagues wish to support our offer for West Ham United. We can
now end the uncertainty of recent weeks and move forward into the
next phase of development of this great club, with Alan Pardew
leading our efforts on the pitch.
"I fully appreciate the personal responsibility that will come
with becoming Chairman of West Ham in due course and pledge to the
staff, the players and the fans that I am here to serve and to do
all that I can to deliver genuine success on and off the field.
"This change of ownership comes at a very important time in
the history of the club. Terry Brown and his fellow Directors have
done a great job in recent years strengthening the club's
foundations - I want to build on that, ensure continuity in the
running of the club and help West Ham move to a new era.
"As we move forward we must not forget the club's great
traditions, particularly in the training and development of young
English players. All the way back to 1966 and the World Cup winning
team of Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters, this is
something that I have admired about the club. I am very committed
to protecting and growing this part of the club's work.
"My mandate once I become Chairman is to oversee real progress
at every level of the club's operations. This is a football
deal to help the football club become even more successful. One
part of that has to be securing the long-term future and we will
look at various ways in which this can de done.
"In terms of the club's location we are buying what we
see, which is West Ham United at Upton Park. However, if there is
an opportunity to discuss a long-term move to the Olympic Stadium I
would like to explore that, recognising that there will also need
to be an athletics legacy from the London 2012 Olympic Games.
"I will also be continuing talks with Alan Pardew on how he
sees the future on the playing side. This is very much his domain
and he has my full confidence and support. He already knows that
funds will be made available for the January transfer window but we
need to discuss his needs and the investment that might be required
to strengthen the squad.
"The main financial supporter of our bid, Mr Bjorgolfur
Gudmundsson, has given me full backing and responsibility to take
the club forward. He and I have known each other through football
for many years and we share a passion for the game, particularly
here in England.
"Mr Gudmundsson's commitment to the club is vital and he
also believes that we can build something very special here at West
Ham.
"Our partnership is now working with the club's officials
and advisers to complete all of the necessary documentation on the
takeover deal as soon as possible. We have made fantastic progress
in recent days and once the formalities are completed I will assume
the role of Chairman.
"There is a genuine excitement in the club about what we can
achieve together, which I hope the fans will share. This club has
so much to be proud of and I want everyone who loves and supports
the club to bring their pride and passion to help build this next
stage of West Ham United's future."
*The first exclusive interview with Eggert Magnusson will appear
on WHUTV -
West Ham United's official broadband video service - later this
morning…