Birch: Inquiry Would Have To Be Financed

Last updated : 23 December 2003 By Kevin Markey

Initially appointed as chief executive, Birch will be in temporary charge until at least January 19th, the deadline agreed with creditors while a buyer is sought for the club.

Birch's appointment as a director was overwhelmingly agreed by shareholders, who voiced their anger and frustration at how the club had managed to find themselves in such a financial mess.

A shareholder described the Leeds board, going back to the Peter Ridsdale era, as "inept" and "incompetent", while another claimed they were now "the laughing stock of the football world".

"Shareholders have a right to be angry," said Birch, who it was revealed is the highest-paid director in the history of the club and earning £500k-per-year, although he is continuing to work without a contract.

"On the face of it, it (the club's financial record) is difficult to defend as the results speak for themselves.

"But John (McKenzie) came in, steadied the club and steered it through turbulent waters. The reality is the ship is still afloat.

"It may well have sunk if John had not implemented pretty difficult decisions in terms of taking cuts out of the business.

"In terms of an inquiry, all my efforts are concentrated on the club, and I'm not sure who would take it on and how it would be financed.

"But it's something to look at once Leeds United is safe. For now, we are totally geared towards saving the club."