Sumrith “Tiger” Thanakarnjanasuth was formally introduced as the new Chairman of Oxford United this morning.
Tiger takes over from Darryl Eales, who was alongside him at a mid-morning press conference to outline how the change came about and what the plans are for the future.
“When I first met Darryl, he showed me the city of Oxford, a world famous city,” Tiger explained. “After that, we went to the club and the training ground and I saw that there was an opportunity here. We have a strong team and if it’s managed well we have a good chance. I have a passion for football; before I became involved here I was involved in Reading because of that passion. I have seen that passion from the fans and am really looking forward to the new challenge.”
Tiger confirmed that he hopes to meet Firoz Kassam in the very near future, and was then asked about timescales for the appointment of a new Manager. He revealed that a strong shortlist had been drawn up and hopes to have somebody in place before Saturday’s game at home to Fleetwood, although he stressed that the decision will not be rushed.
After meeting staff he then went to the training ground to meet the coaching staff and players.
Outgoing chairman Darryl Eales believes that the club is in very safe hands:
“I think you know that I’ve taken the club to my heart and I’m passionate about it,” he told the press conference. “We’ve achieved a fair amount over the last three-and-a-half seasons and from my perspective it was about finding the right partner with the right credentials and the right personality and depth of feeling for football as I like it to be played. As we’ve got to know each other over the last six months, I think Tiger is a fantastic fit for Oxford United.”
You can see full exclusive interviews with both Darryl and Tiger in iFollow right now.
The change in ownership means that the Fans Forum scheduled for this Thursday will now be held later in the season, as Tiger told iFollow:
“We will certainly hold one because I want to meet the fans and talk to them. Unfortunately I can’t do that this Thursday but will make sure we reschedule as soon as possible or another time because I think it’s a very important way of communicating with supporters.”