There is some blue sky above Leamington this morning, but reports of snow in Nuneaton. But whatever the actual weather at the Ricoh Arena, the future of Coventry City remains cloudy follow yesterday’s High Court hearing.
There is some blue sky above Leamington this morning, but reports of snow in Nuneaton. But whatever the actual weather at the Ricoh Arena, the future of Coventry City remains cloudy follow yesterday’s High Court hearing.
It’s difficult to make reliable predictions in a fast-moving and complex situation. However, I think that it is more likely than not that the Football League will impose a ten point deduction on Coventry City, notwithstanding the existence of different companies and arguments about who has the golden share. From their perspective, they need to show that their disciplinary regime is still working whatever legal obstacles are put in their path.
I also think it is likely that some deal will be cobbled together to allow the Sky Blues to play their three remaining home games at the Ricoh, even though relations between Arena Coventry Limited and Sisu have sunk to a new low. The Ricoh never wanted them to pack up and leave.
As to whether administration of part of the club will open the way for new owners, that remains much more uncertain. One interesting development reported in the Coventry Evening Telegraph yesterday was that the Higgs Trust are prepared to consider selling their 50 per share of the Ricoh at a realistic price of £4m. Having a half share in the stadium would make ownership of the club a more attractive proposition.
The joint administrator, Paul Appleton, has issued a statement in which he promises to untangle matters as quickly as he can, but points out that this will take time and asks Sky Blue fans to be patient.