Charlton’s supporter group, Coalition Against Roland Duchatelet (CARD), have announced that they intend to continue their protests against the ownership of the club despite the recent reports of an imminent takeover.
Charlton director Richard Murray had previously stated on 28 February that the much-vilified owner Duchatelet had agreed to the sale of the club yet there has been little movement since, much to the anger of the suffering Charlton supporters.
In a statement shared via their Twitter account (@CharltonCARD), the group announced: “While we appreciate the takeover requires a degree of confidentiality, it has become clear that that neither Karl Robinson nor a majority of fans now feel they can rely on what director Richard Murray says.
Purchase
“Murray said on February 28th that a price and terms had been agreed and ‘we are now just waiting for their respective lawyers to finalise the sale and purchase agreement’. Robinson’s comments suggest the manager has now been given a different story.
“If necessary we intend to target Roland Duchatelet’s business operation in Belgium for lawful protest, as well as all three April matches at The Valley, because this situation cannot and will not be allowed to continue indefinitely.”
Fans of the club were left further frustrated following their side’s 1-0 defeat to Blackpool on Tuesday night when boss Karl Robinson admitted he was unaware of when the takeover would be completed.
Speaking to BBC Radio London after the game, Robinson said, “It could be next season. It could be in the summer. It could be two weeks. It could be a month.
“Whoever is buying the club, come on, for the benefit of these people who support the club and the players, this is something that needs to be sorted out.”
Difficult
With off-field matters often the focal talking point, it’s clear that it’s been difficult for everyone involved in the club with the growing cloud of uncertainty hovering above their heads.
Charlton remain in the fight for the final play-off spot, yet with such damaging distractions, it’s difficult to envision this troubled club pulling off a significant upset.