New Everton Chief Says Ground Share Could Work - 04/10/2004

Everton's new chief executive, Keith Wyness, has said that Merseyside could be the one place in Britain where ground sharing could work on a permanent basis. He said that finding a new ground was paramount to achieving success after years of under achievement. 'Goodison has so many flaws that a new stadium is crucial', he told the Financial Times. He warned that the club could not afford to spend too much of the £30m it will receive from selling Wayne Rooney to Manchester United. With debts totalling about £40m, it was essential to balance the books before chasing new blood. 'We are fully aware that the squad is very low in numbers and badly needs strengthening, but the long-term viability and security of the club has to come first.'