Hill-Wood in Kroenke U-turn

Chairman claims American could make 'vital contribution'

By James Dall   Last updated: 15th May 2008

Stan Kroenke

Kroenke: Hill-Wood backing

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Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has had a change of heart over how Stan Kroenke can contribute to the club.

Hill-Wood had initially been wary of Kroenke's investment after the American businessman bought into the club last April, previously stating that 'he did not want his sort in English football'.

However, Hill-Wood now believes that Kroenke, who has a 12 per cent stake in The Gunners, could make a 'vital contribution' in the future.

"Contrary to what I said before, I now believe he may well have a vital contribution to make to the future of this football club," Hill-Wood told the Daily Express.

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"I am not denying I said what I said, but I made those observations before meeting Stan. I have now got to know him and I have changed my opinions.

"When I hadn't met him, yes, I didn't think he was the right person to take control of Arsenal Football Club. Now I know him as a man who is very much steeped in sport. He is a sports man.

"He already has a major link with the club through the broadband rights and there is every reason to expect that we shall discuss further how his involvement can be extended."