I cant belive the quote by Gillette
Please find below information on yesterday's meeting and action that took place
as a result.
Spirit Of Shankly Meeting, Sunday 1st February 2009
Spirit Of Shankly, the Liverpool Supporters' Union, held its latest Mass meeting
yesterday, just over a year since the initial meeting which saw the formation of
the Union. Approximately 500 members were in attendance. There were various
items discussed, and the meeting progressed as follows:
1 – Introduction from the Chair
Paul Rice welcomed all to the meeting, and began by raising a glass and everyone
in attendance joined in, to Bobby Wilcox well known and respected Liverpool fan
who recently passed away. Thanks from the family and friends of Bobby were
passed onto Spirit Of Shankly and all members for the support and sympathy given
to the family.
2 – Michael Shields Update
It was explained that despite the good news we had received before Christmas,
with High Court judges ruling Jack Straw does have the power to free Michael,
the ongoing battle to have Michael freed is continuing as Mr Straw shows no
signs of giving a decision yet. There has been a proposal for fans to travel to
Blackburn to hold an alternative to Jack Straw's regular soapbox meetings in the
town centre, and once details are finalised, members will be informed.
3 – Administration Update
Sam Armstrong, who has worked tremendously on dealing with Administration for
the Union passed on the following message –
All those who joined prior to 10th January 2009, should have received their
pack, those living outside of the UK are advised it may take slightly longer.
Any one who has joined since, their packs are currently being processed. If
anyone has not received their pack and has joined before 10th January, they
should email [email protected], and include their name, when and how
they joined and any other relevant information. Any emails sent in December have
been answered, unless it was a specific query which has required further
attention. Emails sent in January are being worked on, some having had an
answer; others will still be waiting, but will receive answers soon. If any
members have not been receiving emails, or have any further queries they are
asked to email [email protected], explaining their query.
4 – Events Update
Stephen Monaghan gave a detailed review of the success of Union Events to date,
including the End of Season Bash, Sportsmans Evening with Joey Jones (who it was
re-iterated is a member and supporter of the Union) and the Michael Shields
Benefit Night. Stephen thanked all those who had worked on the events and those
who had made them a success. He explained that the next events planned, were the
End of Season Bash, where hopefully we will be celebrating number 19, and a
screening of the new Awaydays film for Union members, with final details on
dates and times to be announced.
5 – Travel Update
Alan Kayll was thanked for his work he had done previously in role as Travel
Officer. Kieth Culvin went onto explain that the coaches were running well, and
that we would be going to Portsmouth so anyone wanting to book can do so at
anytime. Price is only £20. Kieth explained that there have been a few
difficulties in arranging air travel to European games, due to the cost of
securing the required ATOL number. He explained other alternatives have been
looked at and that they had approached major airlines about the possibility of
working with them, but as yet to no avail. If any members have any ideas or
believe they can help, please suggest your ideas by emailing
[email protected] or contacting travel on 07511569783.
6 – Update on Present Ownership Situation
Paul Rice gave an update on the Present Situation. It was explained that despite
initial plans to target RBS, continuing to target them could be detrimental to
the club. The Americans had been granted the 6 month extension, but following
talks with banking experts, it was explained that should the Americans fail to
repay, or sell the club, RBS would take control as we know. They would then have
freedom to do whatever they please with the club, and as well as selling this to
less than suitable investors, they could quite easily place the club into
administration. Fans asked why we hadn't proposed action for today's meeting,
and Paul explained that we had discussed it but we wanted the proposals of the
membership and for them to vote, on what can be an emotive issue. One fan asked
if it was true that when we met the manager Rafael Benitez had asked us not to
protest during the game; Paul confirmed Benitez had asked us to consider whether
we should protest during the game as he felt it could affect the players.
Benitez was told we respect his opinion, but any decision would be down to the
members. Paul reminded those present that prior to meeting Benitez, a decision
had already been taken following meetings, and matches, not to protest inside
the ground, so we were acting upon the wishes of members and not Benitez. It was
explained that according to our sources, Kuwait were interested in buying the
club, and that it may be the last time the American owners are both at the same
game.
The situation regarding today was then discussed, as to whether we should be
protesting today or in the future. Members had their say, with some of the
opinion that it was too much short notice, whilst others believed we should do
what we can, whilst we can. Following discussions it was agreed we should do
something.
7 – Action
A member was then tipped off that George Gillett was in the Crowne Plaza hotel
just down the road, whilst Hicks had already left hid hotel. There were numerous
proposals put forward for action. Voting took place, and it was agreed to
protest at the Crowne Plaza after the meeting ended, and to protest after full
time in the Main Stand Car Park outside the Directors Entrance. Details on how
this went can be found below.
8 – Any other business
There were issues raised as to how we could involve overseas and out of town
support, and Paul Rice explained the new structure in place for the committee
following the AGM would address this and similar issues.
A question was asked as to what the Union would be doing to mark the 20th
Anniversary of Hillsborough. Paul Rice explained that this was an issue we would
be involved in although no plans have yet been agreed.
Yesterdays Protest and Action
Following the conclusion of the meeting, fans made their way down to the Crowne
Plaza hotel. On entering the hotel to see if George Gillett was indeed there,
fans were surprised to see him sitting unaware in the corner. He was questioned
by numerous fans in a direct manner as to why he was still at the club and would
he be selling his stake. Gillett offered no answer immediately, and looked
surprised that fans had turned up. When asked by a committee member if he would
be answering any questions, Gillett said he would answer questions from him and
invited him to ask questions. Fans were then ushered outside, and despite
initially agreeing to be asked outside to answer questions, Gillett was advised
not to by others. Fans chanted, showing their anger and frustration about the
American ownership whilst questions were asked of Gillett. This is what
happened:
"I told him all the fans who were outside and thousands more were angry and
upset at how he and Tom Hicks were running the club.
"He looked shocked and asked me why. I told him he knew why, because he met
Spirit Of Shankly before the Manchester United game.
"I said 'fans see it as you have made three promises and broken them'. So he
asked me what they were.
"The first one was the debt on the football club. I told him his partner Tom
Hicks promised it would not be like the Glazer takeover at Manchester United,
and to fans that meant no debt on the club.
"He claimed to be unaware and asked what I meant. I told him they had bought the
club and then placed the debt for buying the club onto the club.
"He claimed this was at the 'request of the banks' and they were in a 'sound
financial position' with 'revenue per pound or dollar in ratio to the debt'
better than at any other football club.
"When I asked about the extension to July, he claimed that was false and no-one
else knew the true details because they were kept confidential.
"The second one was backing the manager and then not doing so. I said they said
they would back the manager, so why had they approached Jurgen Klinsmann about
the position of manager?
"He then went onto claim they had met with the manager, who told them he was to
have discussions with 'three other teams' about joining them and they approached
Klinsmann to have him in place to work as a 'consultant at the club' if Benitez
left them.
"I asked why they had approached Klinsmann, because his pedigree was not one
that immediately made fans sit up and take note.
"He claimed Klinsmann had a brilliant track record, and he had excellent
marketing talent, having close links with those at Adidas, Nike and Reebok and
the benefits of him being at Liverpool.
"I asked who the three clubs were, but he refused to answer.
"The third one was the stadium. I told Gillett the situation with the stadium
angered fans, because Gillett himself had promised a spade in the ground in 60
days, and it still had not happened.
"He denied making this claim and said it was a 'made-up quote by the media' and
he would be interested to see such a quote.
"I asked why work on the stadium dragged on before they finally blamed the
credit crunch for it not happening.
"He claimed they had spent £100m on the stadium so far and were still working
with designers, architects and planners.
"I asked why they were spending the club's money on this and he claimed it was
coming from himself and Tom Hicks and not the club.
"I asked if the club's accounts would show and support this when they are
released, and he said yes. "Gillett then claimed all transfer fees to date had
been met by himself and Tom.
"He said when they bought the club, they were told about the 'Liverpool Way'.
"I asked if he felt they had been true custodians as they promised. Gillett told
me he 'had tried, but it had been difficult' and they had 'done what they
could'.
"I asked why he could not speak for Hicks because he was his partner.
"He said that 'husband and wife can say different things but one does not get
the blame'.
"I explained they were both responsible, and he was not happy at being blamed.
"I asked why he was in partnership with Hicks. He said Hicks and himself had
worked together well for six years in other businesses such as food, but this is
different because the media are involved.
"I asked, would he or Tom Hicks, or both, be selling their stakes in Liverpool.
"Again, he told me he cannot speak for Tom Hicks. I asked, had there been any
offers for the club, and were they currently meeting anyone about it?
He told me: 'Yes, there have been expressions of interest and some negotiation'.
"I asked who with, and he told me he could not tell me that. I asked would he
sell, and he admitted he was 'open to it', but he could not speak for Hicks.
"I then went to walk away, and he came after me saying, 'A few weeks ago, we
were in first position, then a certain individual from the club attacked another
individual from another club, and, since then, we have lost form and slid down
the league.'
"I was stunned, and asked if he was blaming Benitez as a result, and in saying
that, was he not backing the manager?
"Rather than confirm or deny as I expected, he replied 'that's your
implication', before I walked away and back outside to the real world."
According to Gillett, the claim of a spade in the ground was a "made up quote by
the media" and he would like to see such a quote. If George Gillett or anyone
else would like to watch the following clip, notably the first 30 seconds -
After the match concluded, fans gathered in the Main Stand Car Park, where we
protested before dispersing later on. We understand that the short notice for
such action, and deciding upon it on the day meant some fans were unable to join
in. The decision was made at the meeting based on information we had just been
told and we had to act quickly. We also wanted to ensure it was members who
decided on what action to take.
We would also like to tell members that we will always endeavour to ensure
information about action or outcomes is relayed to them first, and not via the
media. We apologise for that not happening in this instance.
Spirit Of Shankly
Please find below information on yesterday's meeting and action that took place
as a result.
Spirit Of Shankly Meeting, Sunday 1st February 2009
Spirit Of Shankly, the Liverpool Supporters' Union, held its latest Mass meeting
yesterday, just over a year since the initial meeting which saw the formation of
the Union. Approximately 500 members were in attendance. There were various
items discussed, and the meeting progressed as follows:
1 – Introduction from the Chair
Paul Rice welcomed all to the meeting, and began by raising a glass and everyone
in attendance joined in, to Bobby Wilcox well known and respected Liverpool fan
who recently passed away. Thanks from the family and friends of Bobby were
passed onto Spirit Of Shankly and all members for the support and sympathy given
to the family.
2 – Michael Shields Update
It was explained that despite the good news we had received before Christmas,
with High Court judges ruling Jack Straw does have the power to free Michael,
the ongoing battle to have Michael freed is continuing as Mr Straw shows no
signs of giving a decision yet. There has been a proposal for fans to travel to
Blackburn to hold an alternative to Jack Straw's regular soapbox meetings in the
town centre, and once details are finalised, members will be informed.
3 – Administration Update
Sam Armstrong, who has worked tremendously on dealing with Administration for
the Union passed on the following message –
All those who joined prior to 10th January 2009, should have received their
pack, those living outside of the UK are advised it may take slightly longer.
Any one who has joined since, their packs are currently being processed. If
anyone has not received their pack and has joined before 10th January, they
should email [email protected], and include their name, when and how
they joined and any other relevant information. Any emails sent in December have
been answered, unless it was a specific query which has required further
attention. Emails sent in January are being worked on, some having had an
answer; others will still be waiting, but will receive answers soon. If any
members have not been receiving emails, or have any further queries they are
asked to email [email protected], explaining their query.
4 – Events Update
Stephen Monaghan gave a detailed review of the success of Union Events to date,
including the End of Season Bash, Sportsmans Evening with Joey Jones (who it was
re-iterated is a member and supporter of the Union) and the Michael Shields
Benefit Night. Stephen thanked all those who had worked on the events and those
who had made them a success. He explained that the next events planned, were the
End of Season Bash, where hopefully we will be celebrating number 19, and a
screening of the new Awaydays film for Union members, with final details on
dates and times to be announced.
5 – Travel Update
Alan Kayll was thanked for his work he had done previously in role as Travel
Officer. Kieth Culvin went onto explain that the coaches were running well, and
that we would be going to Portsmouth so anyone wanting to book can do so at
anytime. Price is only £20. Kieth explained that there have been a few
difficulties in arranging air travel to European games, due to the cost of
securing the required ATOL number. He explained other alternatives have been
looked at and that they had approached major airlines about the possibility of
working with them, but as yet to no avail. If any members have any ideas or
believe they can help, please suggest your ideas by emailing
[email protected] or contacting travel on 07511569783.
6 – Update on Present Ownership Situation
Paul Rice gave an update on the Present Situation. It was explained that despite
initial plans to target RBS, continuing to target them could be detrimental to
the club. The Americans had been granted the 6 month extension, but following
talks with banking experts, it was explained that should the Americans fail to
repay, or sell the club, RBS would take control as we know. They would then have
freedom to do whatever they please with the club, and as well as selling this to
less than suitable investors, they could quite easily place the club into
administration. Fans asked why we hadn't proposed action for today's meeting,
and Paul explained that we had discussed it but we wanted the proposals of the
membership and for them to vote, on what can be an emotive issue. One fan asked
if it was true that when we met the manager Rafael Benitez had asked us not to
protest during the game; Paul confirmed Benitez had asked us to consider whether
we should protest during the game as he felt it could affect the players.
Benitez was told we respect his opinion, but any decision would be down to the
members. Paul reminded those present that prior to meeting Benitez, a decision
had already been taken following meetings, and matches, not to protest inside
the ground, so we were acting upon the wishes of members and not Benitez. It was
explained that according to our sources, Kuwait were interested in buying the
club, and that it may be the last time the American owners are both at the same
game.
The situation regarding today was then discussed, as to whether we should be
protesting today or in the future. Members had their say, with some of the
opinion that it was too much short notice, whilst others believed we should do
what we can, whilst we can. Following discussions it was agreed we should do
something.
7 – Action
A member was then tipped off that George Gillett was in the Crowne Plaza hotel
just down the road, whilst Hicks had already left hid hotel. There were numerous
proposals put forward for action. Voting took place, and it was agreed to
protest at the Crowne Plaza after the meeting ended, and to protest after full
time in the Main Stand Car Park outside the Directors Entrance. Details on how
this went can be found below.
8 – Any other business
There were issues raised as to how we could involve overseas and out of town
support, and Paul Rice explained the new structure in place for the committee
following the AGM would address this and similar issues.
A question was asked as to what the Union would be doing to mark the 20th
Anniversary of Hillsborough. Paul Rice explained that this was an issue we would
be involved in although no plans have yet been agreed.
Yesterdays Protest and Action
Following the conclusion of the meeting, fans made their way down to the Crowne
Plaza hotel. On entering the hotel to see if George Gillett was indeed there,
fans were surprised to see him sitting unaware in the corner. He was questioned
by numerous fans in a direct manner as to why he was still at the club and would
he be selling his stake. Gillett offered no answer immediately, and looked
surprised that fans had turned up. When asked by a committee member if he would
be answering any questions, Gillett said he would answer questions from him and
invited him to ask questions. Fans were then ushered outside, and despite
initially agreeing to be asked outside to answer questions, Gillett was advised
not to by others. Fans chanted, showing their anger and frustration about the
American ownership whilst questions were asked of Gillett. This is what
happened:
"I told him all the fans who were outside and thousands more were angry and
upset at how he and Tom Hicks were running the club.
"He looked shocked and asked me why. I told him he knew why, because he met
Spirit Of Shankly before the Manchester United game.
"I said 'fans see it as you have made three promises and broken them'. So he
asked me what they were.
"The first one was the debt on the football club. I told him his partner Tom
Hicks promised it would not be like the Glazer takeover at Manchester United,
and to fans that meant no debt on the club.
"He claimed to be unaware and asked what I meant. I told him they had bought the
club and then placed the debt for buying the club onto the club.
"He claimed this was at the 'request of the banks' and they were in a 'sound
financial position' with 'revenue per pound or dollar in ratio to the debt'
better than at any other football club.
"When I asked about the extension to July, he claimed that was false and no-one
else knew the true details because they were kept confidential.
"The second one was backing the manager and then not doing so. I said they said
they would back the manager, so why had they approached Jurgen Klinsmann about
the position of manager?
"He then went onto claim they had met with the manager, who told them he was to
have discussions with 'three other teams' about joining them and they approached
Klinsmann to have him in place to work as a 'consultant at the club' if Benitez
left them.
"I asked why they had approached Klinsmann, because his pedigree was not one
that immediately made fans sit up and take note.
"He claimed Klinsmann had a brilliant track record, and he had excellent
marketing talent, having close links with those at Adidas, Nike and Reebok and
the benefits of him being at Liverpool.
"I asked who the three clubs were, but he refused to answer.
"The third one was the stadium. I told Gillett the situation with the stadium
angered fans, because Gillett himself had promised a spade in the ground in 60
days, and it still had not happened.
"He denied making this claim and said it was a 'made-up quote by the media' and
he would be interested to see such a quote.
"I asked why work on the stadium dragged on before they finally blamed the
credit crunch for it not happening.
"He claimed they had spent £100m on the stadium so far and were still working
with designers, architects and planners.
"I asked why they were spending the club's money on this and he claimed it was
coming from himself and Tom Hicks and not the club.
"I asked if the club's accounts would show and support this when they are
released, and he said yes. "Gillett then claimed all transfer fees to date had
been met by himself and Tom.
"He said when they bought the club, they were told about the 'Liverpool Way'.
"I asked if he felt they had been true custodians as they promised. Gillett told
me he 'had tried, but it had been difficult' and they had 'done what they
could'.
"I asked why he could not speak for Hicks because he was his partner.
"He said that 'husband and wife can say different things but one does not get
the blame'.
"I explained they were both responsible, and he was not happy at being blamed.
"I asked why he was in partnership with Hicks. He said Hicks and himself had
worked together well for six years in other businesses such as food, but this is
different because the media are involved.
"I asked, would he or Tom Hicks, or both, be selling their stakes in Liverpool.
"Again, he told me he cannot speak for Tom Hicks. I asked, had there been any
offers for the club, and were they currently meeting anyone about it?
He told me: 'Yes, there have been expressions of interest and some negotiation'.
"I asked who with, and he told me he could not tell me that. I asked would he
sell, and he admitted he was 'open to it', but he could not speak for Hicks.
"I then went to walk away, and he came after me saying, 'A few weeks ago, we
were in first position, then a certain individual from the club attacked another
individual from another club, and, since then, we have lost form and slid down
the league.'
"I was stunned, and asked if he was blaming Benitez as a result, and in saying
that, was he not backing the manager?
"Rather than confirm or deny as I expected, he replied 'that's your
implication', before I walked away and back outside to the real world."
According to Gillett, the claim of a spade in the ground was a "made up quote by
the media" and he would like to see such a quote. If George Gillett or anyone
else would like to watch the following clip, notably the first 30 seconds -
After the match concluded, fans gathered in the Main Stand Car Park, where we
protested before dispersing later on. We understand that the short notice for
such action, and deciding upon it on the day meant some fans were unable to join
in. The decision was made at the meeting based on information we had just been
told and we had to act quickly. We also wanted to ensure it was members who
decided on what action to take.
We would also like to tell members that we will always endeavour to ensure
information about action or outcomes is relayed to them first, and not via the
media. We apologise for that not happening in this instance.
Spirit Of Shankly
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