Blyth Spartans takeover set to be completed as horror 195-day reign comes to an end

Speculation over the future of Blyth Spartans has been brought to an end after owner Irfan Liaquat revealed a takeover that will see a local consortium take control of the Northern Premier League club will be completed on Friday.

The move brings an end to the Tyneside-based businessman’s six-month ownership of Spartans and a major rebuild lies in wait as the new custodians prepare to take control.

After initially revealing he had completed a takeover of the club in February, Liaquat did not officially take control until April, less than 24 hours before Spartans suffered only the second relegation in their 125-year history.

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Following the appointment of former Newcastle United winger Nolberto Solano, a disjointed summer of recruitment and an abysmal pre-season campaign set the tone for the club’s return to the Northern Premier League. Solano’s ill-fated reign was brought to an end by the end of August after his side failed to win any of their opening six games of the season.

Former Sheffield Wednesday and Brighton goalkeeper David Stockdale took interim charge before being handed the managerial role on a permanent basis - but despite claiming wins against the likes of Stockton Town and Workington, Spartans still sit at the bottom of the Northern Premier League Premier Division table.

Liaquat confirmed he had put the club up for sale earlier this month and has now claimed he received interest from Southeast Asia, the United Arab Emirates and the United States in recent weeks. However, Spartans will come back under the control of a local based consortium when the takeover deal is officially completed on Friday.

A statement released by the former owner on Thursday afternoon confirmed Liaquat had put pen to paper on a sales purchase agreement that will see the Croft Park club move under the control of a newly-founded community interest company led by local businessman Martin Trinder.

Part of the statement read: “When I arrived at Blyth Spartans, I said I would always do what is best for the community, and what is best for the football Club. Hence, my decision to hand the club over to the newly formed CIC was a very simple one.

“The CIC and its members at the helm are a collective that do not need any colourful introductions. You have a mixture of proven business knowledge, community driven individuals, fan engagement, and financial stability which will all play a big part to ensure the ongoing success and stability of the football club.

“These are all local Blyth people behind the takeover which was a big factor in my decision. There is power in unity, and there is power in numbers... Simple!

“I want to assure you that this decision comes from a place of love for the club and its future. I will always cherish the memories we have created together, and I hope to see you continue to support the team with passion and dedication. Thank you for being such an integral part of this journey. I look forward to witnessing the club’s future successes.”

Liaquat also confirmed manager Stockdale and sporting director Steve Howard have also left the club ahead of Saturday’s visit to Ilkeston Town.