Jim Ratcliffe also cited Old Trafford as one of the key areas in which he can "guarantee immediate improvement"Getty Images
Jim Ratcliffe spoke for the first time today about his decision to take a minority investment in Manchester United, and he "outlined his vision to knock Manchester City and Liverpool 'off their perch'" by restoring the club "to the top of world football within three years." But Ratcliffe "also asked for 'some patience' as the team closes the gap on their 'enemy'" clubs in the Premier League. He also cited Old Trafford as one of the key areas in which he can "guarantee immediate improvement." Ratcliffe: "It’s not a 10 year plan. The fans would run out of patience if it was a 10-year plan. But it’s certainly a three-year plan to get there." He confirmed state funds "could be used as part of a plan for regeneration" around Old Trafford. He has "yet to make up his mind about demolishing or rejuvenating the existing stadium," but will "announce a taskforce ... to explore various options next week" (London TELEGRAPH, 2/21).
Former ManU captain Gary Neville has been invited by the club "to join a special committee to oversee the regeneration of Old Trafford and the surrounding area." Neville, who co-owns Hotel Football and University Academy 92, which both neighbor the stadium, has "had a series of meetings" with ManU COO Collette Roche about the role. He "has no interest in any role that conflicts with his work for Sky Sports," but he is "more than happy to give his time to a project that will also benefit the area between the football ground and the Manchester ship canal" (London TIMES, 2/21).
