Chief Executive thanks supporters who attended Monday's meeting and provides an update
Northampton Town Chief Executive James Whiting has thanked supporters who attended the NTFC Supporters Trust public meeting on Monday.
"We really appreciate the support of everyone in these difficult times and I hope those who were there were able to gain more of an insight into the situation we face," he said.
"For those supporters who weren't able to attend, we were asked a direct question about whether the players and staff would be paid on Friday.
"In the interests of honesty and openness and in the spirit of the meeting I gave a truthful answer to the meeting and asked for those there to keep that off social media until I had the chance to speak to the staff and players on Tuesday. The situation is that because of the ongoing uncertainty it is likely that the wages will be paid late this month. I felt it was important to tell those concerned face to face rather than them read such information online and I would like to thank those who attended the meeting for respecting that.
"As per the media reports, a deal has been agreed for Kelvin Thomas to buy the club from David Cardoza, subject to talks with Northampton Borough Council over the outstanding £10.25 million loan. If those talks go well and things get agreed, we should be able to move forward as a matter of urgency and we can ensure the players and staff are paid with the minimum amount of delay.
"I would like to thank the players and staff for their continued professionalism and dedication in really difficult circumstances. Thanks are also due to the supporters for their loyalty and to all those fundraisers, volunteers and wellwishers who are all fighting for Northampton Town Football Club and we hope to have some confirmed, positive news regarding the future of the club and new ownership soon."
Manager Chris Wilder said, "Clearly things are not ideal at the moment because we all have financial commitments, but we understand the position the club is in and we appreciate being told up front rather than only finding out at the last minute. The players and staff have shown terrific professionalism over the last few months in really difficult circumstances and will continue to do so as we know we carry the hopes and loyalty of Northampton Town supporters. This won't affect that, we will continue to give our all for the club and thank the supporters for their patience and backing."
Skipper Marc Richards added, "These are difficult times but we will all stick together, we appreciate being told face to face and we will help each other through. Clearly we are all hoping for confirmed news on the takeover as soon as possible but as players that is beyond our control. We will prepare for the Newport County game and our full focus and commitment will be on that, this news doesn't change that."