Everton former chief Keith Wyness stunned by ‘absolutely terrifying’ news from Westminster
Former Everton chief Keith Wyness has insisted he is “absolutely terrified” by potential government interference in football.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – suggested the Conservatives are after “publicity” and a “vote-winning” policy.
The Tory-led UK government has announced plans to appoint an independent regulator following a fan-led review into football in 2022.
The Football Governance Bill had its first reading in Parliament on Tuesday (19 March) and has already been publicly opposed by West Ham owner David Sullivan.
Government’s regulator plans are ‘absolutely terrifying’, says former Everton chief Wyness
Powers handed to a potential regulator will focus attention on improving the financial sustainability of clubs, ensuring financial resilience across the pyramid and safeguarding English football’s heritage.
Wyness told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “I’m absolutely terrified because putting politicians near football worries me greatly.
“I was involved in the Premier League when the 39th game was proposed. It became such a big issue, and suddenly I was getting so many phone calls, letters and emails from MPs because they wanted the publicity.
“Nine times out of ten, that’s what they are after. It’s no surprise that there’s an election coming up, and there’s now a bill coming forward from the Tories about a regulator.
“Labour would do the same because it’s a vote-winner.
“That seems to be what it’s all about. Do we really have faith that politicians can handle financial problems? It’s a worry.
“I don’t know if there is a real need for an independent regulator.
“I think the far-reaching way it is going is a big problem.”
In other news, Everton line up summer replacement for Jarrad Branthwaite after source’s new reveal.
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