Following Monday’s FAB meeting at Cardiff City Stadium, Co-Chairs of the Fan Advisory Board have issued the following update to supporters ahead of the weekend's game with Stoke City.
Steve Borley opened the meeting and felt we needed to address the FAB letter and the Club response. A full and frank discussion took place and it was agreed that in the first instance, Steve Borley as Co-Chair of FAB should have had notice of the letter before it was published; it was accepted that this was an oversight of protocol.
In terms of the content of the letter and the Club response, it was accepted that both parties could have toned down the language and that, going forward, better and direct lines of communication would overcome this problem. All representatives agreed that better communication between parties was the way forward and agreed it was in everybody's interest to work together for the common good.
In terms of the points raised,
Question one: Current managerial situation and the process involved
Events had overtaken point one with Omer Riza having been appointed manager until the end of the season. A discussion took place on typical managerial recruitment process, which involved compiling a shortlist from a significant number of approaches that happens when a position becomes vacant; this is typically from far and wide and advice is sought from trusted parties. The Chairman and CEO would typically meet the short-listed candidates and make recommendations, but final decision would be made by the Owner. The Owner has strong views on the type of manager he wants and, in this instance, having sacked a manager on a significant package, he wanted time to assess the interim manager before he made his final decision.
Question two: A clear plan for the current season and the longer term strategic plan
With the ongoing substantial financial support of the owner ‘Sri Vincent Tan’ the club’s strategy is to further invest in its well regarded academy system and to develop the state of the art training facility at Hensol. In addition the owner continues to provide funds for improvements and additions for the first team squad with players who should have enhanced transfer values should they be sold on at a future date.
Steve Borley also referred to the Three Pillar Principle referred to in the Fans Parliament meeting by CEO, Ken Choo. The pillars were outlined as being: progression of youth; playing with an attractive style; and balancing age and experience throughout the squad.
Academy Manager, Gavin Chesterfield presented to the group highlighting the journey and strategy for pre academy players, through the age groups up until integration with the first team squad. The presentation covered the principles, values, development and playing style at each age level. The presentation was supported by statistics and highlighted our standing in performance comparisons with peer groups. Mike Weedon complimented Gavin’s presentation and it was suggested that we combine a mission paper covering the Club’s Three Pillars and Academy Strategy.
Question three: Improved communication and transparency
It was agreed that ‘communication, communication and communication’ would solve this issue. FAB Co-Chair Mike Weedon now a has direct line of communication to Co-Chair Steve Borley on matters of concern, without needing to filter questions via the SLO.
It was also stated that Chairman Mehmet Dalman will continue his regular fans meeting when he attends games and will look to arrange a further Fans Parliament in 2025. The last meeting had a disappointing attendance given the number of acceptances received and so the Club will look to open it next time to a larger number.