Aldershot plight causes concern

Crisis club Aldershot held an urgent board meeting on Tuesday night as their financial state continues to cause concern.

Shots owner Kris Machala, who stepped down as chairman in late February but remained on the club's board of directors, revealed less than two weeks ago that he had secured a new investor who would pump much-needed funds into the Hampshire outfit. That deal subsequently fell through last week and the threat of administration has become a genuine concern, with the club's future appearing even more bleak following their relegation from the Football League at the weekend. Machala revealed on Sunday that he was holding discussions with Shahid Azeem, his replacement as chairman, to transfer the majority of his shareholding in the club, provided Azeem could satisfy an immediate cash requirement and guarantee their future. But, as yet, nothing has materialised, although a statement released by the club's board of directors on Tuesday night suggests an announcement of some kind is imminent. It read: "An urgent meeting of the board of directors was convened this evening at which the company's financial position was discussed. The company is currently seeking restructuring advice and a further statement will be made within the next 24 hours. "We understand the concern that has emanated from what has been an uncertain period for the football club and for the importance of a conclusion to the situation soon. The board remains committed to securing the long-term future of Aldershot Town Football Club and thank you for your patience and understanding." Aldershot skipper Ben Herd feels the off-field situation needs to be resolved as quickly as possible to help boost the club's chances of on-field success and a swift return to the Football League. "It needs to be rectified asap, really, the sooner the better," he said. "The club needs to get everything in place for the summer because it's a very important period and you don't want to be procrastinating this time of year and it goes into June. "You can half-promise players contracts but you can't really fulfil them just yet because there's a takeover going on. And then you get to the start of pre-season and you're left short with players. It's not good for anyone."