- Manchester United News
- News Archive
- League Table
- Premier League News
Gill defends Glazer business model
Published : 12 Mar 2010 09:52:32
Manchester United chief executive David Gill insists the Old Trafford outfit are benefiting from the Glazer family's business expertise. Whilst the highly visible green and gold campaign, which David Beckham offered support to by wearing one of their scarves as he made his way off the pitch on Wednesday night, will again be in evidence as United entertain Fulham on Sunday, Gill believes the Glazers' positive contribution to the club is being ignored. United announced a seven-figure sponsorship deal with Telekom Malaysia on Thursday, providing further proof the Reds remain an attractive proposition. The five-year deal is part of a new commercial strategy implemented by the Glazer family. Instead of taking a global approach, United adopt a territorial stance, doing exclusive deals in specific areas to maximise income and make the most of an estimated 333million supporters worldwide. It was one of the facts the Glazers took into account when they launched their own takeover. "The owners thought we were doing very well on the commercial front but that there were other opportunities out there," Gill said. "This is the insight they have brought in. "It doesn't get much media coverage but the very fact they have come in and are able to do these deals benefits us. "We can reinvest that money back into the team." Gill's comments reinforce the view inside Old Trafford that the only reason the vast majority of the £80million received from Real Madrid for Cristiano Ronaldo remains unspent is due to Sir Alex Ferguson's reluctance to enter what he feels is an inflated transfer market. The Manchester United Supporters Trust argue differently, of course, as they stand solidly behind the Red Knights, whose attempt to wrest control of the club on behalf of the fans is now being assisted by leading global investment bank Nomura. Sources close to the Glazer family have continued to insist the club is not for sale, and they have no intention of off-loading despite debts in excess of £700million. It was a message reinforced by Gill as he was announcing Telekom Malaysia is to become the 'Integrated Telecommunications Partner' of the Old Trafford outfit. "There are protests," said Gill. "Everyone has the right to protest and there was certainly a lot of green and gold there on Wednesday, you cannot deny that. "But this partnership demonstrates the strength of the club. It is a long-term partnership for five years. "We will be around for the length of this five-year deal and many more in addition to that. "We have a sound business model and Telekom Malaysia is partnering one of the best teams in world football. That will always be the case." What do you make of Gill's comments? Have your say.