The Australian Football Consortium have recently updated their website with new statements which include stating that they will involve fans as part of the process and understand their importance in English football.
On the 12th April, it was revealed that Charlton Athletic had received interest from an Australian consortium, known as the Australian Football Consortium LTD (AFC). At the time the current status, according to their website in mid-April, was they were in the process of raising £20 million capital to table an offer to the current owner, Roland Duchatelet.
It was also rumoured that a possible deal would not include an arrangement for Charlton’s ground, The Valley, but would include their New Eltham training ground, Sparrows Lane.
Over the last few days, the Australian Football Consortium (AFC) have updated their website and the new information which has been added could be seen as positive signs by the Charlton faithful.
Charlton Athletic have had one of the most turbulent experiences in terms of ownership communication and breakdown in terms of involving fans and ensuring that the board room is united with the lifeblood of the club to achieve success by pushing in the same direction.
The greatest concern for any Addick is going to be, will this new ownership value me as a fan and for the very passionate, tribal and unbreakable connection I have with my football club?
The troubles taking place at Charlton Athletic – thanks to the fans and the protests groups – have been widely publicised, and no doubt the consortium would have read the issues and become well aware of what has taken place at The Valley.
Originally the Australian Football Consortium did not have any message on their site, which made clear their approach to fans in how they will engage. However, since the 12th April they have added the following:
“It is also important to note that AFC is keenly aware and understands the importance of the fans in English football. We are committed to our responsibility to honour and respect the history and tradition of the club and ensure that the fans are respected as key stakeholders in the process.“
