Knighton's lawyer Joseph Glass read out a statement at Brunton Park this lunchtime which indicated that Knighton was not satisfied with Courtenay's ability to find the necessary funding to complete the deal. He had been given ample time and many opportunities to do this, claimed the statement, but a "major concession" had been made today to help the deal along. It is understood Courtenay only received details of the concession 20 minutes before the press conference at Brunton Park, leaving him with no time to make an instant response. He is expected to make a statement later today, however. Knighton's comments come on a day when his son Mark, now one of two directors at the club, launched a vitriolic attack on city MP Eric Martlew, who had been quoted on the front page of the News & Star yesterday calling for the Knighton family to quit the club and allow Courtenay to take over. In response Knighton Jnr has hit back labelling his comments as “grossly irresponsible.” He went on to add “Martlew does not know the first thing about the Industry, I am astonished how he can make such statements when he has not been near the Football Club nor its Directors.” “Martlew continues to exploit the situation, perhaps to bring him the attention he otherwise would not receive.” Mark Knighton added: “Is there any wonder why a whole generation of young people have been completely alienated against politics when you look at the likes and qualities of men like Eric Martlew.” The events of the past 72 hours have left fans bemused and angry and protests are expected at tonight's game with York City for which Billy Barr has taken temporary charge. Barr is the only senior full-time coach left at the club after all the sackings and resignations of the last few days. He insists it will be business as usual. “We’re all professionals and are fully focused on today’s game at York and I’m sure the events off the field will stay off the field,” said Barr. United's players may still find it hard to keep their minds on the job as many of the players were brought to the club by Collins, coached by Cunningham and scouted by Robinson. The Cumbrians are currently lying in 15th place in the table, atop a group of four clubs on 50 points thanks to superior goal difference. Since Christmas they have produced form worthy of a play-off spot to climb up the table from 23rd position. When Collins resigned briefly last month before the game at Lincoln City, United did not perform well and went down to a 3-1 defeat. Picture from News & Star www.newsandstar.co.uk |
