“The sustained, deliberate and elective withholding of presence and explanation — from an ownership that demonstrably extends both to another club in its portfolio — is what the word ‘contempt’ describes. Not malice. Not incompetence…
“Contempt: a judgement that Everton does not warrant their effort.”
Paul Quinn doesn’t mince words in a lengthy dissertation on the ownership of Everton FC by The Friedkin Group. He assembles and collates a series of grievances and concerns about the way TFG have behaved toward Everton that all came to a head in the shambolic end to the transfer window a week ago, and contrasts this with the very different treatment given to AS Roma the other big club in the TFG portfolio.
“The Friedkins told us they would show their commitment through actions, not words. Twenty-one months on, they have given us neither the words nor the sight of them. In Rome they write letters and take their seats. Here, they stay away. That is not stewardship. That is contempt.
“They are at liberty to have changed their minds as to maintaining ownership of Everton Football Club. One would think that, as competent business owners, they would withdraw or sell on the best possible terms, allowing fans, employees and the city of Liverpool itself to be grateful for their rescuing intervention in our darkest days.
“They could have left the club, sold to new owners, enhanced their global reputations, even made a profit financially.
“Instead, they’ve chosen to treat us all in a manner that can be summed up in one word…
“Contempt.
“It’s a ludicrous business strategy that damages Everton’s future competitiveness and equally the Friedkins’ reputation.
“Be gone, your actions make you not worthy of association with our great club, our city and our fanbase spread globally.”