Kieran Maguire delivers verdict on John Henry U-turn at Liverpool after deal struck today
John W Henry will not U-turn by allowing a meaningful “power shift” in the Liverpool boardroom despite recent movements towards a more fan-centric model.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the boardroom structure at Anfield.
Tracey Crouch’s review into financial imbalances in football advocates a number of measures to ensure fan representation at executive level.
A ‘golden share’ scheme, fan veto mechanism and ‘shadow board’ were all proposed in order to prevent incidents like April’s Super League plot.
Now, fan group Spirit of Shankly have, as per the Liverpool Echo today (28 November), negotiated a deal with FSG for greater boardroom power.
New rules would require FSG to have the consent of fans before they embark on breakaway plots or try to move away from Anfield.
But Maguire argues that there will be no great changes in the day-to-day running of the club.
“I don’t see decision making being delegated to the shadow board,” he told Football Insider correspondent Adam Williams.
“FSG very much call the shots and I don’t anticipate that will change any time soon, even with the recommendations in this review.
“Any increase in fan representation has got to be welcome. One of the biggest take-homes from the Super League was that it is needed.
“But I’m not convinced John Henry and company will take any notice at all. I’m not sure there is scope for a real power shift here.”
Liverpool owner Henry was forced into an embarrassing video apology following the breakaway conspiracy last April.
On the pitch, Jurgen Klopp’s side are battling with Chelsea and Man City for top spot in the Premier League.
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