Burnley owner JJ Watt hits back at Birmingham City’s Garry Cook after confession

Tue 17 September 2024 16:31, UK

Burnley co-owner JJ Watt has hit back at Birmingham City CEO Garry Cook on social media following his comments on playing games in America.

Watt, 35, has staunchly defended ‘the beauty of the English game’ following Cook’s statement that it would be a ‘great idea’ for Birmingham City and Wrexham to play in the United States.

Two goals from League One record signing Jay Stansfield and a long-range effort from Tomoki Iwata were enough to secure a 3-1 victory for Birming over Wrexham on Monday.

Controversy surrounded the game on the pitch as well as off it, with Wrexham defender James McClean taking to social media to sensationally hit back at Birmingham fans.

Burnley chief JJ Watt against league games across the pond

When asked about the prospect, Cook, 66, said in an interview with the BBC, “Well, personally, I think that is a great idea, but I think the EFL wouldn’t see it that way and I think the history and the tradition of our sport and our league tries to ensure that it doesn’t happen.”

Watt took to X, formally known as Twitter, to respond to Cook and express his feelings about the idea of hosting competitive English football in America.

The former American footballer is one of Burnley’s individual shareholders who own 16 per cent of the club after buying a stake with his wife and ex-NWSL star Kealia.