Johnson backs potential Rovers investors

Tranmere Rovers chairman Peter Johnson has told fans that they should have no worries ahead of an ever more likely takeover by American-based group Club 9 Sports.

Having confirmed that negotiations were ongoing, the former Everton chief has allayed fears that the prospective new owners might not be up to the task financially. Sheffield Wednesday had talks with Club 9 Sports last year, only to deem the American’s investment proposals ‘derisory’.

Mr Johnson told JMU Journalism: “I’m at a stage where I need some succession, with money. They were very pleasantly surprised by what they saw on a recent visit. They are looking to buy the 90% of shares that Lorraine (Rogers) and I can offer.”

Mr Johnson also said that he and his board would remain in place for a year after purchase to ensure a smooth transition. The Rovers supremo was upbeat about the club’s stability, with it possibly being a major factor in the American’s interest.

He said: “We are a soundly-based club with our own ground and our own training assets. Most of the debt is down to one person.”

Mr Johnson confirmed that Club 9 Sports would be investing in the playing squad, but was philosophical when it came to the future of teen star Dale Jennings, having turned down several bids - including one from a Premier League side - for the player in January.

He said: “We make sure that the well-being of the boy is paramount, not the finance of the club.” But he added: “In my opinion no-one should hold onto players. We all want players to play at the highest level and not stand in their way, but we need to be financially strong enough to reject the first offer.”

Mr Johnson was adamant that young players need time on the pitch to develop: “Of the players playing for the England U-21s, all of them have played more times for England than for their club. This is not the way forward.”

Physio-turned-manager Les Parry looks set to keep his job despite the switch, with his current owner saying the Americans were “very impressed by our behind the scenes staff.”

If the sale goes through, Mr Johnson will step down after 25 years at the helm, leaving behind memories of saving the club from administration and six trips to Wembley. He said: “I’ve been a Tranmere fan since I was six. I hope to leave the club in a far better state than when I arrived.”