Thursday 30 July 2015 14:34, UK
Eric Cantona has backed the planned supporters' buy-out of non-league Bath City and revealed he will purchase a share of the club.
Fans of the Vanarama National League South side are aiming to raise between £750,000 to £1.25m to complete a takeover and run it as community-owned asset.
Film director and City supporter Ken Loach launched the 'Big Bath City Bid' (BBCB) in June in an attempt to save the club from their current financial plight.
Cantona, who worked with Loach for the 2009 film ‘Looking For Eric’, has made it clear that the director and the fans of the club can now count on his support.
"Great news, the fans of Bath City are going to buy the club. I am supporting them and buying a share myself. You must support them too," the former Manchester United forward said in a video on the Big Bath City Bid YouTube channel.
"It is a great club, I saw it for myself. Now, we can make it even greater. It's a big challenge to raise the money but don't be scared.
"To surprise others, you must surprise ourselves first. Make a great club, buy shares."
The campaign has already gained the support of actor Ricky Tomlinson, who has since purchased shares in the club.
Fans are able to buy shares in the club through a crowdfunding campaign which was launched alongside the BBCB scheme.
If the campaign is successful in securing the money needed, an offer will be submitted towards the conclusion of the fundraising period.
