Derby County 'saved' as takeover finally completed
By Tom Gott
Derby County have expressed their delight at being 'saved' by the completion of their long-awaited takeover.
The Rams entered administration in September 2021 and endured a tumultuous 2021/22 season, which ended in relegation from the Championship and left Derby facing the very real possibility of collapsing altogether this summer.
Talks over a sale to Chris Kirchner broke down in June, shortly before Wayne Rooney resigned from his role as manager, but the turmoil has finally ended as local property developer David Clowes, who already owns Pride Park, stepped in to buy the club.
Joint administrator Carl Jackson said: “We are very pleased to have achieved today’s sale, in a deal which secures the long-term future of The Club, and one which represents the very best outcome for creditors.
"I would like to express my sincere thanks to The Club’s staff players and the fans for their loyalty, and patience, as they supported the Club through the administration."
Fellow joint administrator Andrew Hosking added: “The level of complexity involved in bringing this matter to a conclusion has been unparalleled and we are grateful to all stakeholders and their advisers, for their hard work which has enabled us to overcome a magnitude of challenges, and allow the rescue of this historic Club.
"This deal represents a real milestone in the long and illustrious history of Derby County, and one which marks the end of the uncertainty experienced by supporters and the wider community whilst the club has been in administration and also importantly is one which complies with the EFL Insolvency Policy and provides the best return for creditors.
"Today signifies a new beginning for the Club, and it enables the Club to move forward into the new season with a clean slate, under local ownership under the stewardship of Clowes.”