Man United news: Ex-PL CEO is ‘concerned’ as Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plan revealed
Former Everton chief Keith Wyness has insisted the government should not aid Man United financially with the redevelopment of their Old Trafford stadium.
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 – claimed Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer Family have “deep enough pockets” to fund a revamp.
Man United set up an expert task force earlier this month with the objective of regenerating Old Trafford – their current 74,310-seater stadium.
Ratcliffe, who is reportedly worth close to £30billion, has spoken publicly about wanting a ‘Wembley of the north’ in Manchester and called for government to help fund the project.
According to The Times (22 February), Westminster will block the use of public funds to rebuild or revamp Old Trafford – but left the door open to helping the redevelopment of surrounding areas.
Wyness slams Man United owner Ratcliffe for Old Trafford plan
Wyness echoed the government’s stance – claiming Man United’s owners have the resources to complete the project.
He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “It’s an exciting opportunity to re-develop the whole area and it should be embraced, absolutely.
“But I believe these private owners and shareholders have the resources themselves, without accessing government money – which I’m more concerned about.
“I think they can deliver a really superb vision.
“It would be exciting for them and the fans, so I’m all for it.
“I’m just concerned about using government money to develop the stadium. The surrounding area is fine, but there shouldn’t be any grants for the stadium build itself.
“With the Glazer Family and INEOS, there are deep enough pockets to fund the vision themselves.”
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