Madejski hits back at critics

Reading chairman disappointed with fans' reaction

Last updated: 4th September 2008

Football Premier League Reading Aston Villa John Madejski

Madejski: Disappointed

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John Madejski has told Reading supporters not to be so quick to judge him over a perceived lack of investment.

Madejski has been Reading chairman since 1990 and his financial backing helped the club reach the Premier League for the first time in heir history.

However, some fans booed Madejski when he came on the pitch at half-time in Saturday's 4-2 victory over Crystal Palace to encourage the crowd to be more vocal.

Madejski was disappointed with the reaction, telling the Evening Post: "I didn't actually hear it, but apparently it happened.

"It's never the best thing in the world. I feel it is a bit unfair.

"We are trying our best, but the trouble is they are not privy to the finite details of the costs and what is involved.

"Running a club is a very expensive business and they shouldn't be so quick to judge."

Healthy finances

Madejski insists he will not jeopardise the future of the club as he looks to juggle their finances.

The Royals have slashed their wage bill and recouped more than £10million in transfer fees, while they will also receive £11million over the next two seasons in parachute payments.

However, their television revenue will drop significantly following relegation and there are still bank loans to pay off, while Madejski maintains that millions of pounds have been spent on investment and infrastructure.

He said: "We are not awash with cash like everyone thinks, but we are financially healthy compared to most of the Championship clubs.

"We had two seasons in the Premier League but there isn't a surplus of cash."