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"I sincerely hope for the best at Coventry City", says losing American bidder Preston Haskell
14 Jun 2013 22:00
Coventry City exclusive: Preston Haskell releases statement to the Coventry Telegraph wishing Sky Blues the best for the future
US property tycoon Preston Haskell IV appears to have given up his interest in buying Coventry City and the Ricoh Arena.
In a statement released to the Telegraph shortly after 9pm tonight, he appeared to be walking away from any remote hope of securing a takeover at the club.
It came three hours after Coventry City Football Club Limited's administrator, Paul Appleton, announced his preferred buyer is Otium Entertainments - a company related to hedge fund Sisu, which has continued to operate the club under Coventry City Football Club (Holdings) Limited.
Fans have tonight been speculating over whether Florida-based Mr Haskell, who bid had been backed by former club directors Joe Elliott and Gary Hoffman, might still make a last gasp offer to Sisu to buy the club, even though Holdings boss Tim Fisher has repeatedly insisted the club is not for sale.
Preston Haskell IV (centre) with Gary Hoffman and Joe Elliott
Many fans on social media tonight were also still hoping the Football League might intevene next week to prevent the sale backed by Mr Appleton.
But tonight's statement from Preston Haskell IV reads: "Over the past few months while working hard to acquire CCFC, I have developed a strong affinity with the fan base of the club.
"Of course I am disappointed by this afternoon's decision but I am incredibly proud to have had the experience and unforeseen encouragement of a lot of dedicated supporters. I'm so appreciative of that.
"I personally met with Mr. Paul Appleton and think he and his colleagues, bound by the laws and rules of an official legal process have been very professional throughout this difficult undertaking. His job wasn't easy but it was done according to the law, and appropriately managed.
"I would also like to publically thank the 'good and great of Coventry' Mr. Joe Elliott and the steadfast Mr. Gary Hoffman for their unwavering support and hard work. These two gentlemen truly bleed Sky Blue.
"Finally, I sincerely hope for the best at CCFC."