Mike Garlick becomes sole Burnley chairman

Burnley have announced Mike Garlick will assume sole chairmanship of the club following the resignation of John Banaszkiewicz as co-chairman.

Garlick, the club's largest shareholder, had shared the position with Banaszkiewicz, who will continue as a director, for the last three years.

The main objective under Garlick's solitary stewardship is to try and return the Clarets to the Premier League after their relegation.

Garlick said: "John and I now own over 75 per cent of the club combined and going forward will continue to work together to move the club forward in a positive and progressive way."

Having worked with Mike closely over several years, I know he will do a fantastic job. I am confident that the transition will be a smooth one and from the position of being a director, I will still be able to make a major and positive contribution.

In an open letter, Banaszkiewicz said: “Having worked with Mike closely over several years, I know he will do a fantastic job. 

“I am confident that the transition will be a smooth one and from the position of being a director, I will still be able to make a major and positive contribution. 

“I have a large and growing international business and a young family in London who I need to devote more time to, as my children are growing up quickly.

“I am sad to be stepping down but I’m very proud of having helped build a financially stable, professionally-run club which I have supported in times of need. 

“I’ve already received several messages of support from fellow board members who are very pleased I’m remaining on the board.”