Fans Want Ashley To Answer Questions (Good Luck With That)

Last updated : 30 December 2014 By Footy Mad - Editor

Ashley, the owner of Newcastle United, stands at the centre of the Rangers financial storm, with his £3m in loans propping up the club and his influence attracting charges against him and the club from the Scottish Football Association.

Supporters aimed to have a series of questions over Ashley aired at last week's annual general meeting but claim the meeting was cut short with questioners standing at microphones.

As Ashley considers his next move, the supporters' trust has a list of questions over his involvement in the club.

It wants details of the commercial arrangements with Sports Direct, specifically whether the sportswear firm has the right to choose a shirt sponsor when the deal with 32 Red ends.

It also seeks clarity on Ashley's moves over the last share issue and whether Rangers are considering selling more of its retail business to the Newcastle United owner.

Derek Llambias,who was appointed chief executive of the club this month, is an associate of Ashley's and supporters want to know what his remuneration is at the club. The former Newcastle United director is thought to be on £150,000 a year at the club but Ashley is renowned for paying very substantial bonuses to employees who meet or surpass targets.

The fans want to know if Llambias "is also entitled to other benefits (housing costs, car allowances, pension) and in particular if he is eligible for any bonus payment? If he is eligible for a bonus then on what basis will this be earned?"

There is also a concern from supporters over whether Murray Park has been offered as a security for any further loan from Ashley. Fans, too, what to know the details of the roles played at the club by James and Sandy Easdale and how much was paid to Imran Ahmad, a former commercial director, in an out of court settlement.