The Chairman Speaks

Levy spoke at the annual shareholders meeting and gave the papers plenty to talk about. Of course some journalists used the Chairman's statements to draw unsupported conclusions, such as the Guardian here suggesting Berbatov may depart in January. Actually, Levy wouldn't deny that hypothetical so it must be true.

Here is Levy's full statement to the board.

Of particular note was the Chairman's efforts to dodge responsibility. Levy denied that the board played a role in the club's poor start and also put the decision to hire Ramos at Comolli's feet. Levy suggested it was the decision of the Director of Football to hire the Spaniard and that he would have a lot to answer for if Ramos doesn't succeed.

There has also been much speculation recently about the resources Ramos will be provided in the transfer window. If there is disagreement, I expect to see Ramos trying to sway the board through public opinion. I'm sure the board is still sick over the leaks with Jol and hopes to avoid this kind of situation. At issue appears to be whether Ramos can bring older players to the team who can not be expected to bring any return in future transfer dealings. If this is really a point of contention, I expect we'll hear more about this.