Impact of Black Knight Investment

[He's here!]

I'm pissed off at some of the guys running Hibs at the moment but I'm not thrilled by this statement. Like you say, it smacks of arrogance. Are they giving orders now? Making it public is pretty unprofessional as well. I don't want to be a cog in a machine where we do as head office tells us and are expected to sign players, managers and play in a way that is mandated by the group.And they absolutely don't have the track record to suggest their methods will guarantee results. They can shove their investment up their arse if this is the attitude.Problem is those pulling the strings at Hibs don't have the track record to provide us with any optimism either.

[Callum_62]

It will be interesting to see how Gray handles the inevitable questions on this

It also doesn't explain why we are so far behind in recruitment though and that's on Mackay

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

[neil7908]

They should be giving the orders. Much more experience. The quicker a full takeover is allowed the better.

Be careful what you wish for. I wonder what Lorient fans are saying right now?

And based on those comments, we would absolutely not be in a group. Full control means Black Knight deciding that we play their way', whatever that means.

I'm not happy with Gordon or Kensall but the way Foley has handled this makes me extremely wary of getting further into bed with them.

[Ronniekirk]

I wonder if that means they weren't happy with the Gray and Mackay appointments.The suppossed review was not long underway and suddenly Malky was appointed So what was the point in starting a review and not waiting on the outcome

[neil7908]

I agree as well. The guy hasn’t even graced us with his presence. Interesting timing of the article. Was he waiting for our first defeat?

That's a really good point. One game lost and he's putting the boot in. Doesn't feel like the move of someone that has our best interests at heart.

[Mikey_1875]

He was asked by the BBC about our loss

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

Fair enough on that one then. Still not impressed with the content of those answers though.

[MWHIBBIES]

Club is a desperate mess.

SOS Tom Farmer and Leeann Dempster.

[Northernhibee]

Did anyone think that the billionaire Black Knights group were giving us millions of pounds without expecting anything in return out of the goodness of their hearts?

More importantly, what did the quadrangle of leadership expect?

[jeffers]

Be careful what you wish for. I wonder what Lorient fans are saying right now?And based on those comments, we would absolutely not be in a group. Full control means Black Knight deciding that we play their way', whatever that means.I'm not happy with Gordon or Kensall but the way Foley has handled this makes me extremely wary of getting further into bed with them.Personally I hope the BK group never get full control.

[NC1875]

I've no idea how you get it's kensells fault or he didn't understand what the BK investment was

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

He runs the club and if we’re not listening to BK, he’ll have something to do with it. Not difficult really.

[Trinity Hibee]

Extremely disappointing to hear this. We are an utter mess.

[Callum_62]

He runs the club and if we’re not listening to BK, he’ll have something to do with it. Not difficult really.Is he classed as the ownership group?

Maybe it's the Gordon's going there own way is key boardroom decisions?

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

[Northernhibee]

Extremely disappointing to hear this. We are an utter mess.

Genuinely wouldn’t shock me if SDG were to look at this and think “this isn’t how I want to start my managerial career”.

[Tyler Durden]

What do you mean by “working in this industry”. You work in football?

I took it to mean that Chuck is in PR, as he was referencing the messaging and the underlying motives.

[Iain G]

So you begin with the initial snide remark about creative writing, outside events paint his case as transparently correct and your only response is another snide remark? It's almost as if he was right and you were wrong but you're not big enough to accept it.

I don't think it's as simple as is being made out, lots of gum bumping and noise going on but still early in this partnership.

[Donegal Hibby]

Don't love this comment either:

"Our goal is to have similar coaching, similar playing styles and similar players that can progress through our system. It is not just going to be Bournemouth and a bunch of other teams"

Not keen on it either , similar coaching / playing style might work better in some leagues than others . Similar players that can progress through the system imo is very much about Bournemouth and a bunch of other clubs.

Wonder what " they are not listening to us " was about , could Grays appointment be one of these issues ? .

Also wonder where FC Lorient listening to them when they got relegated? .

Hibs are getting badly run though I don't think the timing of this was great from Foley and comes across abit arrogant imo .

[NC1875]

Is he classed as the ownership group?

Maybe it's the Gordon's going there own way is key boardroom decisions?

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

Hes the Gordon’s puppet so of course he is. Him and Ian Gordon the chuckle brothers are running this club into the ground and we have people on here defending them. Do me a favour

His fingerprints are all over anything to do with Hibs.

[ChuckNor]

Honestly, my feeling is we should be running a million miles away from the Black Knights Group. Clearly their attitude is any team they acquire or invest in plays the way they want them to and develops Bournemouth's young players. If this is the case then we should be thankful it is only circa 20% of the club they own. They want B-Teams.

What an absolute shambles from our owner, board and Ben Kensell. Not one of them seem to have done enough due diligence.

[Tyler Durden]

I'm a bit baffled that there appears to be no clarity on the the BK's role........ I naively assumed there would be some terms of reference and an operating model put in place which Hibs would have agreed to follow (covering recruitment, academy, ideal playing style etc).

If it's as simple as they have 2 Directors on the board who can be outvoted and we've just taken their investment, more fool them I guess.

What a mess.

[NC1875]

Honestly, my feeling is we should be running a million miles away from the Black Knights Group. Clearly their attitude is any team they acquire or invest in plays the way they want them to and develops Bournemouth's young players. If this is the case then we should be thankful it is only circa 20% of the club they own. They want B-Teams.

What an absolute shambles from our owner, board and Ben Kensell. Not one of them seem to have done enough due diligence.


Exactly. Looks good on Bens CV though bringing in the investment

[Chorley Hibee]

I wonder if that means they weren't happy with the Gray and Mackay appointments.

As someone said earlier.

We were promised new models, and access to wider capabilities etc.

Yet all we've ended up with is Gray, MacKay, Marshall, Craig, May, some free transfers from League 1 in England, and a loan goalkeeper.

I don't think the Black Knights have the answer to everything but, right now, I'd rather have them on board than not.

There's very few alternatives available to us with the morons running the club we have.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Honestly, my feeling is we should be running a million miles away from the Black Knights Group. Clearly their attitude is any team they acquire or invest in plays the way they want them to and develops Bournemouth's young players. If this is the case then we should be thankful it is only circa 20% of the club they own. They want B-Teams. What an absolute shambles from our owner, board and Ben Kensell. Not one of them seem to have done enough due diligence.And HSL were vilified and targeted for horrendous abuse when they expressed doubts about reducing their shareholding for this.Club's a shambles.

[superfurryhibby]

How much have the Black Knights actually invested in Hibs?

My understanding was that they obtained 25% of the club in return for six million pounds?

Does that mean the Gordon's value Hibs at around 24 million pound?

[jeffers]

Honestly, my feeling is we should be running a million miles away from the Black Knights Group. Clearly their attitude is any team they acquire or invest in plays the way they want them to and develops Bournemouth's young players. If this is the case then we should be thankful it is only circa 20% of the club they own. They want B-Teams. What an absolute shambles from our owner, board and Ben Kensell. Not one of them seem to have done enough due diligence.Tend to agree. Your last sentence certainly seems to be true, from the Foley quotes he seems to believe he has more of a say than those at Hibs do.

[SickBoy32]

Honestly, my feeling is we should be running a million miles away from the Black Knights Group. Clearly their attitude is any team they acquire or invest in plays the way they want them to and develops Bournemouth's young players. If this is the case then we should be thankful it is only circa 20% of the club they own. They want B-Teams.

What an absolute shambles from our owner, board and Ben Kensell. Not one of them seem to have done enough due diligence.

A good summary.

Hibernian slowing edging towards a feeder / B team for a shanner like Bournemouth was the fear many had a few months back when this was all being discussed.

Here we are, shortly after, getting called out in public for not accepting the wisdom of Foley - who knows, given the fortunes of his French side we may be wise to ignore his advice.

However - another blunder from our totally incompetent executives in either not scrutinising the deal closely enough to understand this was the motive of the investor, or just diverging from a strategy agreed with Foley.

Kensell is not to be trusted, so could really be either.

We need him out the club asap.

[Northernhibee]

A good summary.

Hibernian slowing edging towards a feeder / B team for a shanner like Bournemouth was the fear many had a few months back when this was all being discussed.

Here we are, shortly after, getting called out in public for not accepting the wisdom of Foley - who knows, given the fortunes of his French side we may be wise to ignore his advice.

However - another blunder from our totally incompetent executives in either not scrutinising the deal closely enough to understand this was the motive of the investor, or just diverging from a strategy agreed with Foley.

Kensell is not to be trusted, so could really be either.

We need him out the club asap.

Kensell isn’t going anywhere.

[Hibiza]

Extremely bad form for Foley to make such a damning statement public. Nobody knows the full story , just some decent on players please.

[ChuckNor]

And HSL were vilified and targeted for horrendous abuse when they expressed doubts about reducing their shareholding for this.Club's a shambles.

Totally agree. They were 100% right to ask questions. Sadly, the concerns they had were well founded. If only our “board” had some teeth and asked proper questions. Let’s not forget Macpherson’s role in all this.

[Tyler Durden]

Totally agree. They were 100% right to ask questions. Sadly, the concerns they had were well founded. If only our “board” had some teeth and asked proper questions. Let’s not forget Macpherson’s role in all this.

What were their concerns?

[Donegal Hibby]

Timing of this is strange too , after we have had a really bad result it almost feels like Foley's putting the boot in , in i told you manner .

[Col2]

It will be interesting to see how Gray handles the inevitable questions on this

It also doesn't explain why we are so far behind in recruitment though and that's on Mackay

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

I am guessing but wonder if Foley has held back some of the investment. That would explain it. The weird stuff going on when Gray was appointed and lack of any media for weeks made me suspicious. What a total mess. I have zero confidence in Kensall and Gordon and McPherson. And we know Malky Mackay is McPherson chum.

We may not like the blunt approach by Foley but he HAS a track record of success unlike these clowns. I fear SDG will be collateral in all this as Kensall and Gordon hide as usual and let Gray face the questions.

[TrinityHFC]

Totally agree. They were 100% right to ask questions. Sadly, the concerns they had were well founded. If only our “board” had some teeth and asked proper questions. Let’s not forget Macpherson’s role in all this.

Their issue was purely reduction in their shareholding wasn’t it? They’ve since invested more into this model.

[matty_f]

Very Hibs.

Work hard to get a billionaire with a proven track record of success in sport and then proceed to ignore him😅

We need to chase the folk running the club.

Genuinely, what an opportunity we have to push on and these jokers won’t key them help. Obviously because of the great job they’ve done so far.

Amateurs. It is absolutely laughable.

I posted concerns about this recently on the PM board, we are a total joke.

[GreenPJ]

Honestly, my feeling is we should be running a million miles away from the Black Knights Group. Clearly their attitude is any team they acquire or invest in plays the way they want them to and develops Bournemouth's young players. If this is the case then we should be thankful it is only circa 20% of the club they own. They want B-Teams.

What an absolute shambles from our owner, board and Ben Kensell. Not one of them seem to have done enough due diligence.

So I think Hibs are in a different situation than any of the other clubs in the 'Black Knights Group' portfolio in that they own less than 30% of Hibs and there is no stated plan for complete ownership - I think all other clubs in the portfolio are either wholly owned or are planned to be wholly owned by Black Knights so maybe someone needs to remind the billionaire that the structure with their interest in Hibs is different.

We know Hibs have issued to solve (the club structure and first team squad) but the fault for this statement lies clearly on the Black Knights/Bill Foley IMHO.

[matty_f]

As someone said earlier.

We were promised new models, and access to wider capabilities etc.

Yet all we've ended up with is Gray, MacKay, Marshall, Craig, May, some free transfers from League 1 in England, and a loan goalkeeper.

I don't think the Black Knights have the answer to everything but, right now, I'd rather have them on board than not.

There's very few alternatives available to us with the morons running the club we have.

:agree:

[Onion]

Agreed. The optics are terrible. The trouble with the article is we don’t know just what Hibs “haven’t been listening to” It’s easy to assume it’s great advice that our arrogant board/owners are ignoring. It could equally be us sensibly saying no thanks to those Bournemouth youth players you want us to put into our first team.

Agreed, shocking look for Hibs and Foley. This was all nicely packaged up with a bow a few months ago, now it's internal fighting which has gone public. Until Foley's investment, it was generally accepted that the Gordon's experiment was a failure. So Bk's involvement was seen as injecting some sense, experience and resources. From all I've seen so far, Hibs have simply used their cash to keep going along the same path. I'm delighted Foley is calling them out.

Pressure on Hibs Board has been cranked right up - even before the season has started ! Fans unhappy, new shareholder not happy. Hibs badly need results on the field and bums on seats to sort this out.

[McGruber]

Well done Hibs and the Gordon's - credit where credit is due in sticking up for ourselves.BK wanted us to take Bevan but MacKay and Gray thought we would get better value from Ekpiteta and O'Hora. Same with a number of other Bournemouth youngsters that they have tried to push on us that we have pushed back on. We always said we didn't want to be a development ground for Bournemouth and wanted to retain our identity. Same goes for resisting on the philosophy of all teams in the group playing the same way. Minority stake and they don't get that call. Neither they should. Well done Hibs sticking to our guns.Was no statement from BK after first couple wins but loss to Kelty and opportunity to suggest the Hibs ownership will listen to them now (about taking their players and playing their way) and getting the right hires in i.e. Bevan and Bournemouth youngsters could do better - 'hires' meaning taking the Bournemouth kids they tell us to.Good we've stood our ground from the off. It's a partnership not a dictatorship.Good job Hibs.(alternative made up view to all the other speculative uninformed made up views)

[Not In The Know]

Kensell and Co have to respond to this. We are a ***ing embarrassment. They dont have a clue what they are doing, we are spending more money and getting worse.

[JohnM1875]

Everyone hoping and praying for a signing to be announced today and we get this instead?

What the **** is going on with our club.

Getting so sick of it.

[Tyler Durden]

Agreed, shocking look for Hibs and Foley. This was all nicely packaged up with a bow a few months ago, now it's internal fighting which has gone public. Until Foley's investment, it was generally accepted that the Gordon's experiment was a failure. So Bk's involvement was seen as injecting some sense, experience and resources. From all I've seen so far, Hibs have simply used their cash to keep going along the same path. I'm delighted Foley is calling them out.

Pressure on Hibs Board has been cranked right up - even before the season has started ! Fans unhappy, new shareholder not happy. Hibs badly need results on the field and bums on seats to sort this out.

I think you're spot on. Foley seems to be putting pressure on Kensell and Gordon here, which is aligned with the view of most fans. It is an awful mess but I don't understand some takes which seem to suggest that Foley is now showing his true colours or changing tack...... It seems to be Kensell/Gordon who've reneged on what was perceived to be the agreement.

[Brightside]

Well done Hibs and the Gordon's - credit where credit is due in sticking up for ourselves.BK wanted us to take Bevan but MacKay and Gray thought we would get better value from Ekpiteta and O'Hora. Same with a number of other Bournemouth youngsters that they have tried to push on us that we have pushed back on. We always said we didn't want to be a development ground for Bournemouth and wanted to retain our identity. Same goes for resisting on the philosophy of all teams in the group playing the same way. Minority stake and they don't get that call. Neither they should. Well done Hibs sticking to our guns.Was no statement from BK after first couple wins but loss to Kelty and opportunity to suggest the Hibs ownership will listen to them now (about taking their players and playing their way) and getting the right hires in i.e. Bevan and Bournemouth youngsters could do better - 'hires' meaning taking the Bournemouth kids they tell us to.Good we've stood our ground from the off. It's a partnership not a dictatorship.Good job Hibs.(alternative made up view to all the other speculative uninformed made up views)

Who have we pushed back on.

[McGruber]

Who have we pushed back on.No idea, that's the point

[superfurryhibby]

Who have we pushed back on.

Eh, Bevan?

[The Modfather]

Well done Hibs and the Gordon's - credit where credit is due in sticking up for ourselves.BK wanted us to take Bevan but MacKay and Gray thought we would get better value from Ekpiteta and O'Hora. Same with a number of other Bournemouth youngsters that they have tried to push on us that we have pushed back on. We always said we didn't want to be a development ground for Bournemouth and wanted to retain our identity. Same goes for resisting on the philosophy of all teams in the group playing the same way. Minority stake and they don't get that call. Neither they should. Well done Hibs sticking to our guns.Was no statement from BK after first couple wins but loss to Kelty and opportunity to suggest the Hibs ownership will listen to them now (about taking their players and playing their way) and getting the right hires in i.e. Bevan and Bournemouth youngsters could do better - 'hires' meaning taking the Bournemouth kids they tell us to.Good we've stood our ground from the off. It's a partnership not a dictatorship.Good job Hibs.(alternative made up view to all the other speculative uninformed made up views)

What is our identity under the Gordon’s and Kensel? Lurch from disaster to disaster and yearly changes in direction? B-team - DOF - Sporting Director.

[One Day Soon]

Agreed, shocking look for Hibs and Foley. This was all nicely packaged up with a bow a few months ago, now it's internal fighting which has gone public. Until Foley's investment, it was generally accepted that the Gordon's experiment was a failure. So Bk's involvement was seen as injecting some sense, experience and resources. From all I've seen so far, Hibs have simply used their cash to keep going along the same path. I'm delighted Foley is calling them out.

Pressure on Hibs Board has been cranked right up - even before the season has started ! Fans unhappy, new shareholder not happy. Hibs badly need results on the field and bums on seats to sort this out.

Fully agree, to the extent that the Board actually acknowledge and feel any pressure. Many supporters have been aware for a long time just how amateurish and nepotistic football things have been at Hibs, it needs calling out by a much wider range of voices. The fact that Ian Gordon still has ANYTHING to do with recruitment is a gigantic red flag.

[Chorley Hibee]

Well done Hibs and the Gordon's - credit where credit is due in sticking up for ourselves.BK wanted us to take Bevan but MacKay and Gray thought we would get better value from Ekpiteta and O'Hora. Same with a number of other Bournemouth youngsters that they have tried to push on us that we have pushed back on. We always said we didn't want to be a development ground for Bournemouth and wanted to retain our identity. Same goes for resisting on the philosophy of all teams in the group playing the same way. Minority stake and they don't get that call. Neither they should. Well done Hibs sticking to our guns.Was no statement from BK after first couple wins but loss to Kelty and opportunity to suggest the Hibs ownership will listen to them now (about taking their players and playing their way) and getting the right hires in i.e. Bevan and Bournemouth youngsters could do better - 'hires' meaning taking the Bournemouth kids they tell us to.Good we've stood our ground from the off. It's a partnership not a dictatorship.Good job Hibs.(alternative made up view to all the other speculative uninformed made up views)

Even if that's all true (I'm not doubting you) then who was responsible for bringing the Black Knights on board?

Either way, this mess all begins and ends with Kensell and Gordon, yet again.

[Brightside]

Eh, Bevan?

Did we?

[Onion]

So I think Hibs are in a different situation than any of the other clubs in the 'Black Knights Group' portfolio in that they own less than 30% of Hibs and there is no stated plan for complete ownership - I think all other clubs in the portfolio are either wholly owned or are planned to be wholly owned by Black Knights so maybe someone needs to remind the billionaire that the structure with their interest in Hibs is different.

We know Hibs have issued to solve (the club structure and first team squad) but the fault for this statement lies clearly on the Black Knights/Bill Foley IMHO.

For Foley to go public with these comments, suggests there is big disagreement in strategy and/or execution. This is not Foley waking up in a bad mood, it will have a been a series of issues / appointments / decisions that have frustrated him / Bks and that they feel Hibs are going in wrong direction (again !).

Going to be intereting few weeks - off the field.

[04Sauzee]

We need to chase the folk running the club.

Genuinely, what an opportunity we have to push on and these jokers won’t key them help. Obviously because of the great job they’ve done so far.

Amateurs. It is absolutely laughable.

I posted concerns about this recently on the PM board, we are a total joke.

Who is it we need to chase? Kensell? The Gordon's? Mackay? Who is it needing chased? What is that Bournemouth have told us that we aren't listening to?

[ChuckNor]

Seems we have a special visitor looking in. Posted on another thread. If it is who I think it is, did you do appropriate due-diligence of the Black Knight deal? If so, why has Foley gone public about the spat between owner and investor at the club?

[McGruber]

What is our identity under the Gordon’s and Kensel? Lurch from disaster to disaster and yearly changes in direction? B-team - DOF - Sporting Director.No idea. No idea what or who Foley is referring to. Just made my post up like everybody else. Thought I'd go with a Hibs friendly bit of fantasy to mix it up a bit. Until there are some facts as to what is going on it's pure speculation from everyone.

[McGruber]

Even if that's all true (I'm not doubting you) then who was responsible for bringing the Black Knights on board?Either way, this mess all begins and ends with Kensell and Gordon, yet again.You should doubt me - it's made up nonesene..... or is it....

[Brightside]

Seems we have a special visitor looking in. Posted on another thread. If it is who I think it is, did you do appropriate due-diligence of the Black Knight deal? If so, why has Foley gone public about the spat between owner and investor at the club?

😂😂

[.Sean.]

I heard similar, when I asked about him stepping away from it the response I got was no chance, it’s his passion.A family friend of mine bumped into Nick Montgomery on Haddington High Street 2(?) weeks ago (he’d been renting a house here while at Hibs) and NM (who he said came across as really genuine) was adamant Ian Gordon is still involved up to his neck in the recruitment. Didn’t think much of it at the time thought it was maybe just a throwaway comment but looks like it might not have been

[Pagan Hibernia]

Their issue was purely reduction in their shareholding wasn’t it? They’ve since invested more into this model.The shareholding was the main issue but their statements around that time also spoke of disappointment with how the Gordons were running the club, lack of transparency, and lack of clarity over Foley's proposals. All fair enough imo.

[Iain G]

Seems we have a special visitor looking in. Posted on another thread. If it is who I think it is, did you do appropriate due-diligence of the Black Knight deal? If so, why has Foley gone public about the spat between owner and investor at the club?

Is it Jesus, or Joe Tortolano 😁

[MrRobot]

did Lorient not just get relegated or am i wrong?

[Heisenberg]

A family friend of mine bumped into Nick Montgomery on Haddington High Street 2(?) weeks ago (he’d been staying there while at Hibs) and NM (who he said came across as really genuine) was adamant Ian Gordon is still involved up to his neck in the recruitment. Didn’t think much of it at the time thought it was maybe just a throwaway comment but looks like it might not have been

Having the owner of the club heavily involved in player recruitment would be laughable. Sign the cheques and that’ll be all cheers Ian.

[JohnM1875]

did Lorient not just get relegated or am i wrong?They did and maybe that's what it took for them to start listening to the BK Group. Should we wait til we're relegated as well before we start listening?

[.Sean.]

Seems we have a special visitor looking in. Posted on another thread. If it is who I think it is, did you do appropriate due-diligence of the Black Knight deal? If so, why has Foley gone public about the spat between owner and investor at the club?Who?

[cabbageandribs1875]

And HSL were vilified and targeted for horrendous abuse when they expressed doubts about reducing their shareholding for this.Club's a shambles.this :agree:

[7Hero]

So there was a root and branch review, i thought that was just a pr stunt to appease the fans.

[Springbank]

Personally I'm still furious with the footballers who got us into an embarrassment at the weekend. Bushiri. Levitt. McKirdy. Amos. We will not move forward as a club with players like that & this wake up call should bring about their exit, pronto

[Smartie]

Just catching up on this.

Now, I'm all for putting the boot into Hibs and I don't think there is ever a situation when folk should be particularly comfortable after we've lost to Kelty Hearts.

But even in the wording of the article and Foley's quotes... they have a great relationship with RECENTLY RELEGATED Lorient, yet Hibs are proving problematic. By all accounts the Black Knights weren't all that happy with the booting of Monty - would anyone who had watched his team for a year have much issue with that? Our earliest transfer activity this summer looks to have been good, since then it has all gone a bit quiet. Could that quieting be down to wrangling with the BKs about who we do and do not take?

Hibs deserve all the criticism in the world for loading us up with the players who are currently taking up a chunk of our budget with no likelihood of making any positive on field contribution. But has been all that bad since the BK thing started? And were the boundaries re independence and being swallowed up by a group of clubs really clear? As in REALLY clear? Was everyone on board with what that entailed?

[Pretty Boy]

I don't understand why people are suddenly surprised by Foley opening up like this and wanting more control.

When some tried to talk over the overriding enthusiasm for his investment they pointed out he had been pretty clear about that. He repeatedly stated in various interviews down the years he was never a silent partner and was never happy not being in control. Why people thought that would change at Hibs is anyone's guess.

Fwiw whilst I'm not mad keen on either I'd rather have the guy who has maintained the success others built at Bournemouth and delivered success at his ice hockey team directing things than the men who have repeatedly failed for a fair while now and seem to be stumbling about desperately hoping to find something that works.

[tonyrougier123]

did Lorient not just get relegated or am i wrong?

Yes they did and despite his claims lorient fans are not happy with his involvement over all. They did however beat sevco to a defender costing around 5million😂. I think they’ve recruited heavily but mostly free transfers and sold a player for big money.

For what it is worth I think foley is all bluster. These folk have no clue about football, guy should put his money where his mouth is if he’s serious about making hibs successful especially as rangers look to be on their knees at the minute.

[Iain G]

I don't understand why people are suddenly surprised by Foley opening up like this and wanting more control.

When some tried to talk over the overriding enthusiasm for his investment they pointed out he had been pretty clear about that. He repeatedly stated in various interviews down the years he was never a silent partner and was never happy not being in control. Why people thought that would change at Hibs is anyone's guess.

Fwiw whilst I'm not mad keen on either I'd rather have the guy who has maintained the success others built at Bournemouth and delivered success at his ice hockey team directing things than the men who have repeatedly failed for a fair while now and seem to be stumbling about desperately hoping to find something that works.

Maybe he should flog piddly little Bournemouth and take us over 100% then if he would like that control 😁

[marinello59]

The more I read about all of this the less I know. I'm not even sure who to be angry at anymore. Or if I even am angry, which is probably worse.

[Since90+2]

I don't understand why people are suddenly surprised by Foley opening up like this and wanting more control.

When some tried to talk over the overriding enthusiasm for his investment they pointed out he had been pretty clear about that. He repeatedly stated in various interviews down the years he was never a silent partner and was never happy not being in control. Why people thought that would change at Hibs is anyone's guess.

Fwiw whilst I'm not mad keen on either I'd rather have the guy who has maintained the success others built at Bournemouth and delivered success at his ice hockey team directing things than the men who have repeatedly failed for a fair while now and seem to be stumbling about desperately hoping to find something that works.

To counter that we had plenty folk on here claiming that the Gordons were now just a puppet owner and they'd be dancing to whatever beat of the drum Foley and the Knights chose to play.

The comments by Foley today would seem to confirm that in reality that isn't the case.

[ChuckNor]

Who?

I think you spotted it now as well! Nice of him to reply to your post ha!

[overdrive]

The more I read about all of this the less I know. I'm not even sure who to be angry at anymore. Or if I even am angry, which is probably worse.

Yep. I wish the club had never got involved with either American “party” now.

[Pedantic_Hibee]

It’s about time life started to become uncomfortable for Ian Gordon and his continued involvement in recruitment. If it’s true he was asked to step back from recruitment and he refused then he should be hounded out the club.

[The Modfather]

Will we ever get an update on what the review found? Or is it another unquantifiable sound bite to buy time like Petrie’s 5 year plan?

Numerous, reputable, posters seem to think Ian Gordon is still heavily involved in recruitment. I can’t help but worry we have essentially put a new coat of paint on things and it’s as you were in reality. A few different job titles, Gray replacing Montgomery, Mackay replacing McDermott and Ian Gordon still involved in recruitment.

Foleys comments, whether there’s a vested interest or not, don’t do anything to dissuade the lack of confidence in those running the club.

Can the podcast guys get Mackay or Kensel on the podcast with a list of questions from the forum to fully clarify what’s going on and instill some confidence in the support.

[LunasBoots]

Ahwell least we know we are such a mess now.

[TrinityHFC]

I think you spotted it now as well! Nice of him to reply to your post ha!

Typical of the standard here now. Anyone disagreeing with you is Ben Kensell.

[Trinity Hibee]

Can the podcast guys get Mackay or Kensel on the podcast with a list of questions from the forum to fully clarify what’s going on and instill some confidence in the support.

This is a good idea. Can’t see it happening mind you.

[MrRobot]

Ahwell least we know we are such a mess now.

Based on the word of a minority owner who could just be disgruntled we aren’t letting him run the club with a 25% stake? It’s really unprofessional to put this out publicly tbh and especially with the wording used.

[.Sean.]

Typical of the standard here now. Anyone disagreeing with you is Ben Kensell.‘Typical of the standard here now’. You’ve been posting for nearly 2 year, it’s been on the slide since well before that 😂 You keep up the cheerleading for the Hibs board though, I’m sure they appreciate it 👍🏼

[Iain G]

Typical of the standard here now. Anyone disagreeing with you is Ben Kensell.

I'm Ben Kensell, and so is my wife.

[superfurryhibby]

Based on the word of a minority owner who could just be disgruntled we aren’t letting him run the club with a 25% stake? It’s really unprofessional to put this out publicly tbh and especially with the wording used.

Based on the footballing side of Hibs being utter gash, finishing out with the top six. losing to Kelty Hearts and showing no signs of any footballing benefit from a supposed 6-8 million pound investment?

[McGruber]

The more I read about all of this the less I know. I'm not even sure who to be angry at anymore. Or if I even am angry, which is probably worse.Foley has made some vague comments. We don't know any details, who it is about or what it is about. We don't know if his gripes are justified or not or if his wants have been reasonable or not. Without any information all we can say for definite at this point is it is Hibs fault and we are in a mess... apparently

[B.H.F.C]

The exciting times we were promised a few months ago don’t seem to be materialising. It’s just all talk but a complete inability to deliver.

[Brightside]

So we don’t want the Gordon’s running things, we don’t want Ben running things, we don’t won’t the Knights running things? What’s the plan?

[Brightside]

And who is the mysterious board member who Chuck thinks is now posting.

[One Day Soon]

So we don’t want the Gordon’s running things, we don’t want Ben running things, we don’t won’t the Knights running things? What’s the plan?

It doesn't matter what the plan is because we have no power whatsoever to do anything about Ian Gordon. He's there until he decides not to be. ****.

[JohnM1875]

So we don’t want the Gordon’s running things, we don’t want Ben running things, we don’t won’t the Knights running things? What’s the plan?

Hand the reins over to .Net and we do everything by poll, obviously.

[Wheat Hound]

We need to chase the folk running the club.

Genuinely, what an opportunity we have to push on and these jokers won’t key them help. Obviously because of the great job they’ve done so far.

Amateurs. It is absolutely laughable.

I posted concerns about this recently on the PM board, we are a total joke.

Agree 👍 👏

The current board/ownership DO need chased....but by whom is the question

[HendoDelivered]

And who is the mysterious board member who Chuck thinks is now posting.

And what thread is it on?

[Willis1875]

And what thread is it on?

Golden quadrant thread

[Hibee Daft]

I think this latest article from the Black Knight investment is abit of a mask off situation.

Got to say I'm genuinely worried for hibs

[Ozyhibby]

I’m inclined to support the BK’s over the current board at Hibs.
I find it hard to believe the review of current operations at the club came up with a solution that meant all we needed to do was promote Gray, May, Marshall and hire Mackay who happened to live in Edinburgh. Aren’t we lucky that all the solutions were on our door step?[emoji849]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Brightside]

Golden quadrant thread

If people actually think that’s ben they need help 😂

[04Sauzee]

So we don’t want the Gordon’s running things, we don’t want Ben running things, we don’t won’t the Knights running things? What’s the plan?

The peoples front of Judea

[Col2]

I think this latest article from the Black Knight investment is abit of a mask off situation.

Got to say I'm genuinely worried for hibs

Could be or it might be - given THEY have a history of football success, they are getting peeved at the total clown shown at Easter Road.

[greenlex]

Bill Foley thinks the hierarchy at the club is not listening to the group? Interesting.

[GreenGray]

I am not really grasping the big out cry over this.Yes, it isn't ideal that he has gone to the press, however, was one of the biggest concerns about the investment the worry that Foley would have full control?If the not listening claim relates to us knocking back some Bournemouth players and instead bringing in players that Mackay and Gray have identified then that sounds positive to me.

[TrinityHibby]

We need to chase the folk running the club. Genuinely, what an opportunity we have to push on and these jokers won’t key them help. Obviously because of the great job they’ve done so far. Amateurs. It is absolutely laughable. I posted concerns about this recently on the PM board, we are a total joke.🤔 when you think things are bad as a Hibs supporter something else happens to make it worse……what an absolute joke the Club is becoming……source of said shambles = the Boardroom particularly the CEO and Gordon family 😡

[JohnM1875]

We need to chase the folk running the club.

Genuinely, what an opportunity we have to push on and these jokers won’t key them help. Obviously because of the great job they’ve done so far.

Amateurs. It is absolutely laughable.

I posted concerns about this recently on the PM board, we are a total joke.

Least that's the Thursday phone in sorted! Should be an interesting one

[Hibee Daft]

Could be or it might be - given THEY have a history of football success, they are getting peeved at the total clown shown at Easter Road.

Yeah true, it does come across abit like they are trying to control our board... which might be a good thing if our board is incompetent but still is concerning.

I suppose they were always going to have power with 25% of the club

[Pagan Hibernia]

I am not really grasping the big out cry over this.Yes, it isn't ideal that he has gone to the press, however, was one of the biggest concerns about the investment the worry that Foley would have full control?If the not listening claim relates to us knocking back some Bournemouth players and instead bringing in players that Mackay and Gray have identified then that sounds positive to me.I would agree... if the majority shareholders and Kensell had shown the slightest bit of competence in running a football club over the last few years. As it is, we're stuck between a rock and a hard place.

[neil7908]

So we don’t want the Gordon’s running things, we don’t want Ben running things, we don’t won’t the Knights running things? What’s the plan?

I'll have a bash. Who fancies lending me a few million for the takeover?

[GreenGray]

I would agree... if the majority shareholders and Kensell had shown the slightest bit of competence in running a football club over the last few years. As it is, we're stuck between a rock and a hard place.

Aye, and I get that. I just think we have to give Mackay some time and hope he is at least semi-competent compared to Kensell etc.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[HendoDelivered]

Golden quadrant thread

Oft. Surely not?

[NC1875]

Typical of the standard here now. Anyone disagreeing with you is Ben Kensell.

Your positivity knows no bounds. Well done, give yourself a big pat on the back.

[hibeerealist]

Be careful what you wish for. I wonder what Lorient fans are saying right now?And based on those comments, we would absolutely not be in a group. Full control means Black Knight deciding that we play their way', whatever that means.I'm not happy with Gordon or Kensall but the way Foley has handled this makes me extremely wary of getting further into bed with them.Maybe the folk at Lorient have not been listening to the BK's, got relegated and are listening now-just a thought!The BK's seem to be doing just fine at Bournemouth, I would say MUCH better than anything under the Gordon's ownership at Hibs.Ben K seems to be getting a real roasting over all this, maybe rightly I don't know, but is the real problem IG, he is the one with more power and harder to remove.

[Lago]

I don’t really see any cooling of relations. I think some people thought they were going to be far more involved than what was ever likely to be the case. They were obviously going to have an input, you don’t hand over £6m for nothing but it was always said that those at Hibs would still be running things and, particularly with the appointment of McKay, that’s all that I can see happening. What I did think we’d see would be more obvious use of the funds they put in, in terms of our transfer dealings. Disappointed that appears to have made no obvious difference so far.Well based on Foley’s comments on BBC Sport website he's not too happy, Hibs not taking on board BK advice.

[Since90+2]

I think this latest article from the Black Knight investment is abit of a mask off situation.

Got to say I'm genuinely worried for hibs

If the relationship turns sour we are in a party safe situation. As was mentioned numerous times during the investment the ownership of the club remains with the Gordons.

If Black Knights get pissed off they are limited as to what they can actually do in practice.

[B.H.F.C]

Well based on Foley’s comments on BBC Sport website he's not too happy, Hibs not taking on board BK advice.

I think his comments are going to force Hibs to clarify. Him being unhappy doesn’t necessarily equate to Hibs doing anything wrong (not that I’m saying we’ve not because I don’t exactly trust our board).

Could be him chucking the toys out the pram because they’re not getting their way. And the Lorient example, they got relegated despite their good relationship.

Whatever the truth, it’s just a really **** look at this point.

[SHODAN]

So we don’t want the Gordon’s running things, we don’t want Ben running things, we don’t won’t the Knights running things? What’s the plan? Mind the guy that constantly protested Farmer but then immediately pivoted to protesting Gordon? He seems to really want to do it, let's give him the job. In all seriousness, I wouldn't mind fan ownership right now.

[Vault Boy]

This is a very ****ing bad look for us. Deeply concerning.

[Donegal Hibby]

Extremely bad form for Foley to make such a damning statement public. Nobody knows the full story , just some decent on players please.

It hasn't helped in anyway at all .

[Lago]

Ian Gordon really is playing real life football manager. 😯To me it's his toy and only his, I can see trouble ahead.

[Hibee Daft]

Mind the guy that constantly protested Farmer but then immediately pivoted to protesting Gordon? He seems to really want to do it, let's give him the job. In all seriousness, I wouldn't mind fan ownership right now.

Is there a way to set up a fund that would be solely used only for buying the club as fan ownership we could slowly build up?

I'd certainly donate at this point, not saying I've lost complete trust in the board / bk but it certainly would be nice as a back up

[Velma Dinkley]

Foley said: "We have a very good relationship with Lorient. They are listening and are hiring the right people to develop that club." Lorient, of course, the club that just got relegated.

[TrinityHFC]

Is there a way to set up a fund that would be solely used only for buying the club as fan ownership we could slowly build up?

I'd certainly donate at this point, not saying I've lost complete trust in the board / bk but it certainly would be nice as a back up

HSL has been there for years for this purpose if you think the opportunity will present itself and enough money can be raised.

[Hibee Daft]

HSL has been there for years for this purpose if you think the opportunity will present itself and enough money can be raised.

Is there measures in place so this money can't be used for other things other than buying the club?

[TrinityHFC]

Foley said: "We have a very good relationship with Lorient. They are listening and are hiring the right people to develop that club." Lorient, of course, the club that just got relegated.

They are where they generally are. Arrangements like this should be for the long term and if they are now improving their set up perhaps they can get back and become more established in the top league.

[Paulie Walnuts]

What a shambles.

This is what happens when you give a guy who’s never been involved in football operations the CEO role and a millionaires son the keys.

[TrinityHFC]

Is there measures in place so this money can't be used for other things other than buying the club?

Yes it is purely for purchasing shares in the club. Members would need to be consulted to donate the funds for example.

[Ozyhibby]

Is there a way to set up a fund that would be solely used only for buying the club as fan ownership we could slowly build up?

I'd certainly donate at this point, not saying I've lost complete trust in the board / bk but it certainly would be nice as a back up

Hilarious.[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Hibee Daft]

Yes it is purely for purchasing shares in the club. Members would need to be consulted to donate the funds for example.

That's good to hear

[Velma Dinkley]

They are where they generally are. Arrangements like this should be for the long term and if they are now improving their set up perhaps they can get back and become more established in the top league.Absolutely. In the long term, maybe they will follow our lead on making improvements on and off the pitch.

[SHODAN]

Didn't think I could be convinced to start contributing to HSL again but this might just make me do it.

[MelbourneHibees]

Yes it is purely for purchasing shares in the club. Members would need to be consulted to donate the funds for example.

Maybe a silly question but who are HSL going to be buying shares from going forward?

[Hibee Daft]

Hilarious.[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

This might be hilarious to you but not everyone keeps up with HSL or it's purpose like myself until a few moments ago.

I enjoy watching hibs and like most people casual fans I'm not overly interested in the inner workings

[Greenworld]

I’m inclined to support the BK’s over the current board at Hibs.
I find it hard to believe the review of current operations at the club came up with a solution that meant all we needed to do was promote Gray, May, Marshall and hire Mackay who happened to live in Edinburgh. Aren’t we lucky that all the solutions were on our door step?[emoji849]


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkMaybe now people will understand why they were picked ...cheap options ..

Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

[blackpoolhibs]

So we don’t want the Gordon’s running things, we don’t want Ben running things, we don’t won’t the Knights running things? What’s the plan?I've come to the conclusion that the Gordons are ****in useless at running a football club, Ron before he died sacked the only decent manager we've had recently after starving him of the tools he needed to push on after finishing 3rd.He then started bringing in punts from all over the place trying to play football manager with us, which has carried on with that dick of a son and Kensell.They need to get as far away as possible from us, as its all down to them that this club has become a basket case, the buck stops at their door.Sell us now and piss off back to the states for ****sake before we are relegated.

[Hibee Daft]

Hilarious.[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

BTW if you are a HSL member and have knowledge on the subject. You might want to help educate fellow fans instead of laughing at them, it might help.

[Lago]

Bill Foley thinks the hierarchy at the club is not listening to the group? Interesting.I don't think they are listening to anyone, certainly not the fans, Foley is only saying what 90% of the fans are saying.

[Is It On....]

And HSL were vilified and targeted for horrendous abuse when they expressed doubts about reducing their shareholding for this.Club's a shambles.

They were not the only ones vilified as, was pointed out by numerous posters on here, they [and other supporters with shares who were also reticent about being diluted] just have a smaller share of a more valuable club so, essentially, "jobs a good un" 👍

[Bristolhibby]

I've come to the conclusion that the Gordons are ****in useless at running a football club, Ron before he died sacked the only decent manager we've had recently after starving him of the tools he needed to push on after finishing 3rd.He then started bringing in punts from all over the place trying to play football manager with us, which has carried on with that dick of a son and Kensell.They need to get as far away as possible from us, as its all down to them that this club has become a basket case, the buck stops at their door.Sell us now and piss off back to the states for ****sake before we are relegated.

It’s the Gordons train set. Bugger all we can do about it.

Even if we raised funds theyed have to want to sell.

J

[Bristolhibby]

Hand the reins over to .Net and we do everything by poll, obviously.

PM board obviously having the casting vote?

Only right.

J

[jeffers]

Maybe just me, but the picture Foley paints isn’t one that particularly fills me with any optimism. I’m only interested in Hibs, I don’t give a flying one about Bournemouth or any of the other clubs the BK group have interests in. I’m not defending Hibs blindly here, especially given the recent track record of those in charge, but I only want us doing things he suggests if it benefits us. I don’t know if there is any truth in the rumour he wanted us to stick by Monty, but if it is true I’m glad they ignored him. I’ll say it again if you want overall say in a club Bill then buy overall shares in it.

[blackpoolhibs]

It’s the Gordons train set. Bugger all we can do about it. Even if we raised funds theyed have to want to sell.JWell we need to make it as uncomfortable as possible for them.

[04Sauzee]

Foley told the world that Bournemouth were about to sign the most exciting player in Ecuador. Can't remember his exact words. I'll not get my knickers on a twist just yet

[Ozyhibby]

BTW if you are a HSL member and have knowledge on the subject. You might want to help educate fellow fans instead of laughing at them, it might help.

Farmer offered Hibs fans the chance to buy the club, we were not interested. That ship has now sailed. You can forget about it now. It won’t happen again.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Silky]

I don't think they are listening to anyone, certainly not the fans, Foley is only saying what 90% of the fans are saying.

Maybe they are listening and think the advice is duff? Foley has not provided any evidence to show that the BK's advice will improve us. As previous posters have said, he used the example of Lorient listening and they were relegated! Based on that, as it's the only evidence I have, I can perhaps see why our other shareholders for all their faults, may not act on what they are being told!

[B.H.F.C]

Maybe just me, but the picture Foley paints isn’t one that particularly fills me with any optimism. I’m only interested in Hibs, I don’t give a flying one about Bournemouth or any of the other clubs the BK group have interests in. I’m not defending Hibs blindly here, especially given the recent track record of those in charge, but I only want us doing things he suggests if it benefits us. I don’t know if there is any truth in the rumour he wanted us to stick by Monty, but if it is true I’m glad they ignored him. I’ll say it again if you want overall say in a club Bill then buy overall shares in it.

I agree with this. I think it’s poor what he’s done here and Hibs are going to need to respond now. If they don't then the rumours, the concern and whatever else will end up off the scale.

It’s in no way a defence of Hibs as there’s a million things to criticise the club for but it would be interesting to know what they’ve said no to.

[Jones28]

Maybe just me, but the picture Foley paints isn’t one that particularly fills me with any optimism. I’m only interested in Hibs, I don’t give a flying one about Bournemouth or any of the other clubs the BK group have interests in. I’m not defending Hibs blindly here, especially given the recent track record of those in charge, but I only want us doing things he suggests if it benefits us. I don’t know if there is any truth in the rumour he wanted us to stick by Monty, but if it is true I’m glad they ignored him. I’ll say it again if you want overall say in a club Bill then buy overall shares in it.

Exactly this.

I think The Gordons and Kensall have played it quite well, they've brought investment in to the club whilst keeping it out of the overall control of the BK group - which as it looks here is probably for the best interests of Hibs.

[Lago]

Maybe now people will understand why they were picked ...cheap options ..Sent from my SM-S928B using TapatalkYip, Montgomery was slated on here as a rookie manager from a tin pot league, so this Hibs board sack him and do what, they apoint an even more rookie as manager supported by rookie assistants, cheap options big time.

[Chorley Hibee]

I've come to the conclusion that the Gordons are ****in useless at running a football club, Ron before he died sacked the only decent manager we've had recently after starving him of the tools he needed to push on after finishing 3rd.He then started bringing in punts from all over the place trying to play football manager with us, which has carried on with that dick of a son and Kensell.They need to get as far away as possible from us, as its all down to them that this club has become a basket case, the buck stops at their door.Sell us now and piss off back to the states for ****sake before we are relegated.

Ron Gordon doesn't come out of this squeaky clean either.

He was equally culpable for the mess of the past few years.

It was also him who thought it was a good idea to place his son as Head of Recruitment.

I wish the Gordon family had never set foot in ER.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Farmer offered Hibs fans the chance to buy the club, we were not interested. That ship has now sailed. You can forget about it now. It won’t happen again. Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkAs has been mentioned many times, there was a general lack of interest in the HSL project due to the stability that the club enjoyed. If the club is ever in any kind of danger you can be absolutely certain Hibs fans will respond, as they did in 1990, and as Hearts fans did after 2013.You're probably correct that it won't get to that stage though, and I hope to god it doesn't, but with these clowns in charge who the hell knows.

[ChuckNor]

Few posters now having a pop at me and also trying to slate the standard of posts, specifially referring to mine. Interesting. Completely ignoring that I called this row yesterday (correctly) and have been right on many different bits of info (Henderson away to Belgium, ALF contract row etc) I have shared on from sources. I really don't understand it but there you are. I'll keep sharing the bits I get regardless.

[Chorley Hibee]

Few posters now having a pop at me and also trying to slate the standard of posts, specifially referring to mine. Interesting. Completely ignoring that I called this row yesterday (correctly) and have been right on many different bits of info (Henderson away to Belgium, ALF contract row etc) I have shared on from sources. I really don't understand it but there you are. I'll keep sharing the bits I get regardless.

Just folk unwilling to see the ****show for what it is.

Keep sharing away.

[Trinity Hibee]

Just folk unwilling to see the ****show for what it is.

Keep sharing away.

100%

[Iain G]

Has Foley made it to Edinboro, Scotchland yet?

[Greenio]

Bad lookWho knows whats going on. But what you DONT do, is air your dirty laundry in public. Be professional ffs. I think he's either talking about us not taking players they want us to or someone is going back on a deal here. No way that the roles and influence of TBK in terms of deciding on manager, DOF etc, wouldn't; have been set out in an agreement before the deal went through. He's either not getting the sway he was promised or he's making a noise like a dick in the press to try and get his own way.Either way its guna get worse before it gets better."They'll listen to us now." aye? how? cos you spouted off in the press? If they werent listening to you before, whats changed, about from a ***** result at the weekend?FFS - remember when all those folk used to moan at Leanne about something to do with tickets! Come back!

[Chorley Hibee]

Has Foley made it to Edinboro, Scotchland yet?

He's had more to say than our majority owner has.

[Iain G]

Few posters now having a pop at me and also trying to slate the standard of posts, specifially referring to mine. Interesting. Completely ignoring that I called this row yesterday (correctly) and have been right on many different bits of info (Henderson away to Belgium, ALF contract row etc) I have shared on from sources. I really don't understand it but there you are. I'll keep sharing the bits I get regardless.

Is it interesting? In what way? Am happy to hold.my hand up and say there was something in the posts I had a fun go at, but there is so much rumour and innuendo, mostly without any kind of obvious source, flying around it's hard to not take it all with a huge pinch of salt. Thanks for sharing anyway.

[SaulGoodman]

Unprofessional and unnecessary from Foley. Hope Hibs have some baws and stand up for themselves in a statement. But I doubt it.

[overdrive]

Bad lookWho knows whats going on. But what you DONT do, is air your dirty laundry in public. Be professional ffs. I think he's either talking about us not taking players they want us to or someone is going back on a deal here. No way that the roles and influence of TBK in terms of deciding on manager, DOF etc, wouldn't; have been set out in an agreement before the deal went through. He's either not getting the sway he was promised or he's making a noise like a dick in the press to try and get his own way.Either way its guna get worse before it gets better."They'll listen to us now." aye? how? cos you spouted off in the press? If they werent listening to you before, whats changed, about from a ***** result at the weekend?FFS - remember when all those folk used to moan at Leanne about something to do with tickets! Come back!

Both as bad as each other but in different ways.

[Iain G]

He's had more to say than our majority owner has.

Probably find out owner in the old Eastway tap if you fancy a blether with him and Ben Tan 😁

[Lago]

Ron Gordon doesn't come out of this squeaky clean either.He was equally culpable for the mess of the past few years.It was also him who thought it was a good idea to place his son as Head of Recruitment.I wish the Gordon family had never set foot in ER.👍

[blackpoolhibs]

Ron Gordon doesn't come out of this squeaky clean either.He was equally culpable for the mess of the past few years.It was also him who thought it was a good idea to place his son as Head of Recruitment.I wish the Gordon family had never set foot in ER.Lets be honest here, this shambles is laid right at the door of our departed owner Ron Gordon, he started this mess and handed it over to his son.Two men who dont have a clue about running a football club.

[MWHIBBIES]

Ron Gordon doesn't come out of this squeaky clean either.

He was equally culpable for the mess of the past few years.

It was also him who thought it was a good idea to place his son as Head of Recruitment.

I wish the Gordon family had never set foot in ER.

Yep. Ron started this mess.

[Iain G]

Yep. Ron started this mess.

Chances are he would and coule have fixed it though, unfortunately we won't know one way or another.

[Lago]

Unprofessional and unnecessary from Foley. Hope Hibs have some baws and stand up for themselves in a statement. But I doubt it.Your happy with the stewardship of the club under the Gordon family?

[GreenPJ]

I’m inclined to support the BK’s over the current board at Hibs.
I find it hard to believe the review of current operations at the club came up with a solution that meant all we needed to do was promote Gray, May, Marshall and hire Mackay who happened to live in Edinburgh. Aren’t we lucky that all the solutions were on our door step?[emoji849]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

So how many times was it flagged that we needed someone who knew Scottish football and we needed more Hibs people around the club - how many of them would not be on our doorstep (i.e. central belt Scotland)?

[blackpoolhibs]

Chances are he would and coule have fixed it though, unfortunately we won't know one way or another.Really, what makes you say that?

[Not In The Know]

To me it's his toy and only his, I can see trouble ahead.Kensell and Ian Gordon have made a total mess of things on the pitch so far. Id rather Foley and his team were in total control

[Lago]

Really, what makes you say that?Beat me to it, no evidence Ron would have sorted it.

[sahpaton]

Exactly this.

I think The Gordons and Kensall have played it quite well, they've brought investment in to the club whilst keeping it out of the overall control of the BK group - which as it looks here is probably for the best interests of Hibs.

Not sure that individuals with track records in decision making such as Gordon and Kensell really deserve praise for ignoring advice from a group that they’ve just decided bring onboard. If their advice is so useless then why bother in the first place?

If it’s solely about the investment then this means very little on its own when the same people call the shots. Gordon and Kensell keeping ‘control’ isn’t some big win. They’re far more likely to fix their own mess by welcoming some help than by throwing someone else’s money at more of their own poor decisions

[blackpoolhibs]

Beat me to it, no evidence Ron would have sorted it.I liked Ron, i thought his enthusiasm would be great for us, and i believed he would bring us success. He fooled me even though his actions were showing me he was clueless.

[Hibiza]

Foley ! Where's the £2mill for new players ?

[LunasBoots]

Foley ! Where's the £2mill for new players ?

Spent on there things, waiting on selling Youann to generate some cash then make some last minute signings.

[The Modfather]

I agree with this. I think it’s poor what he’s done here and Hibs are going to need to respond now. If they don't then the rumours, the concern and whatever else will end up off the scale.

It’s in no way a defence of Hibs as there’s a million things to criticise the club for but it would be interesting to know what they’ve said no to.

I find it difficult to keep the concerns about the running of the club separate from the criticism by Foley. It would be quite the coincidence for all the things Foley wants us to do to not be in our interest (like foisting youngsters on us we don’t want) and Hibs are quite correct to say no to them.

Separate to that we have, respected, posters telling us that Ian Gordon is still heavily involved in recruitment, that the budget is quite tight (not that we have no money or are skint) and are close to a stage of needing to move the high earning duds on before we can make proper inroads into signing more staters. Or that we tapped into the Black Knights scouting and set up to identify Gray, Marshall, Mackay, May, Samson etc. Or 3 of our 4 signings coming from the market we usually shop in and the other on loan.

I can see us, reasonably, saying no to some of the Black Knight input, but can’t see a single thing from our review that looks like it’s a benefit of having tapped into the knowledge and expertise of the Black Knights group.

[jeffers]

Foley ! Where's the £2mill for new players ?

Maybe that’s one of the points we haven’t listened to him on.

I’m waiting on Hibs to respond to this though before I assume it’s great advice we have been ignoring. I can’t imagine they are happy with Foley’s comments so hopefully they respond to them.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Chances are he would and coule have fixed it though, unfortunately we won't know one way or another.

Chances are?

Was he just making a mess of it for a laugh to begin with? We can only go on the evidence we had and they would show that, chances are, he didn’t have a clue how to get a good side out on the park.

[B.H.F.C]

Maybe that’s one of the points we haven’t listened to him on.

I’m waiting on Hibs to respond to this though before I assume it’s great advice we have been ignoring. I can’t imagine they are happy with Foley’s comments so hopefully they respond to them.

They don’t have any choice but to respond IMO.

What a mess though that you’ll end up with the two main shareholders having a public disagreement.

[Pagan Hibernia]

I liked Ron, i thought his enthusiasm would be great for us, and i believed he would bring us success. He fooled me even though his actions were showing me he was clueless.I wouldn't say he fooled me. He was a good man who had nothing but good intentions for our club. I absolutely believe that. I just think he didnt really know how to bring his vision to fruition with a football club. A lot of business people are exceptional at what they do and just assume they can translate that to football. The problem is that a football club is not like other businesses, for a multitude of reasons.

[B.H.F.C]

I find it difficult to keep the concerns about the running of the club separate from the criticism by Foley. It would be quite the coincidence for all the things Foley wants us to do to not be in our interest (like foisting youngsters on us we don’t want) and Hibs are quite correct to say no to them.

Separate to that we have, respected, posters telling us that Ian Gordon is still heavily involved in recruitment, that the budget is quite tight (not that we have no money or are skint) and are close to a stage of needing to move the high earning duds on before we can make proper inroads into signing more staters. Or that we tapped into the Black Knights scouting and set up to identify Gray, Marshall, Mackay, May, Samson etc. Or 3 of our 4 signings coming from the market we usually shop in and the other on loan.

I can see us, reasonably, saying no to some of the Black Knight input, but can’t see a single thing from our review that looks like it’s a benefit of having tapped into the knowledge and expertise of the Black Knights group.

I thought the review sounded like a load of nonsense in the first place. It was one of those statements they put out to buy themselves some time.

But I get the general point and agree, nothing really seems to have changed. I’m not sure I thought we’d see massive changes, I just thought we might have went and done some transfer business sharper.

[Real Emerald]

Foley ! Where's the £2mill for new players ?

I’d like to know why we suddenly had to quickly raise £2m a couple of months ago and where that has gone. There’s something they’re not telling us.

[jeffers]

They don’t have any choice but to respond IMO.

What a mess though that you’ll end up with the two main shareholders having a public disagreement.

You’d hope so, but they could well just come out and say no more than they will discuss his comments privately and we eventually end up with a statement saying he was misquoted and they are no issues, even if in private there are. I hope not though, we’d all appreciate some clarity on how they both actually view this tie up.

[MWHIBBIES]

Chances are he would and coule have fixed it though, unfortunately we won't know one way or another.

Chances are we'd be doing exactly what we are now. You don't think him and his son spoke about that planning going forward after he passed?

Ron didn't look like fixing a thing.

[blackpoolhibs]

I wouldn't say he fooled me. He was a good man who had nothing but good intentions for our club. I absolutely believe that. I just think he didnt really know how to bring his vision to fruition with a football club. A lot of business people are exceptional at what they do and just assume they can translate that to football. The problem is that a football club is not like other businesses, for a multitude of reasons.I agree that he wanted the best for us and had good intentions, but good intentions are great when you know what you are doing, but he was clueless and his son is the same.We are a play thing for a family who dont know how to run a football club.

[Ozyhibby]

So how many times was it flagged that we needed someone who knew Scottish football and we needed more Hibs people around the club - how many of them would not be on our doorstep (i.e. central belt Scotland)?

You’ve never heard that from me.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[The Modfather]

So how many times was it flagged that we needed someone who knew Scottish football and we needed more Hibs people around the club - how many of them would not be on our doorstep (i.e. central belt Scotland)?

Over the last few years we’ve had lots of Hibs men at the club, Stevenson, Hanlon, Gray, McGregor, May, Boozy (?) etc. Hasn’t made any difference to how the football side of the club has performed.

[Unseen work]

It’s hard to comment without knowing what their advice has been

Keep Montgomery?
Hire random foreign manager or one from Bournemouth?
Teenagers on loan?

I genuinely really trust Malky with how he comes across and his knowledge of Scottish football to do the right thing.

Foley coming out with that is just so frustrating though as it just makes us look a shambles again. Toys out the pram because he’s not getting his own way?

[Real Emerald]

It’s hard to comment without knowing what their advice has been

Keep Montgomery?
Hire random foreign manager or one from Bournemouth?
Teenagers on loan?

I genuinely really trust Malky with how he comes across and his knowledge of Scottish football to do the right thing.

Foley coming out with that is just so frustrating though as it just makes us look a shambles again. Toys out the pram because he’s not getting his own way?

He probably shouldn’t have said anything like that publicly but it’s obvious for anyone to see we are a total shambles. What he means by it is anyone’s guess but someone needs to get it fixed ASAP.

[Is It On....]

Over the last few years we’ve had lots of Hibs men at the club, Stevenson, Hanlon, Gray, McGregor, May, Boozy (?) etc. Hasn’t made any difference to how the football side of the club has performed.

The rot started with Mathie being fired. The positive is that it can be quickly turned around with the right people in charge.

I don't think we know how good or bad the recruitment has been over the last 18 months or so because we haven't had the right manager in charge (Johnson and Montgomery were out of their depth). Hopefully David Gray proves a better appointment than both of them but, as a rookie manager, it's not going to be plain sailing and we have to hope that he learns from the inevitable mistakes that he will make in his first season.

[Real Emerald]

The rot started with Mathie being fired. The positive is that it can be quickly turned around with the right people in charge.

I don't think we know how good or bad the recruitment has been over the last 18 months or so because we haven't had the right manager in charge (Johnson and Montgomery were out of their depth). Hopefully David Gray proves a better appointment than both of them but, as a rookie manager, it's not going to be plain sailing and we have to hope that he learns from the inevitable mistakes that he will make in his first season.

SDG will have nothing to do with recruitment apart from saying I need a striker, and then yay or nay to the garbage he’s offered.

[Unseen work]

He probably shouldn’t have said anything like that publicly but it’s obvious for anyone to see we are a total shambles. What he means by it is anyone’s guess but someone needs to get it fixed ASAP.

I imagine it will only enrage someone like Malky even more because he will see it as looking like a mess.

I’ve no idea what sort of guy Ian Gordon etc is, or whoever he is talking about, but I can’t imagine guys with loads of money who are in high positions all of a sudden changing their mind and start taking advice because Foley comes out saying that. More likely to do the opposite

[Trinity Hibee]

I imagine it will only enrage someone like Malky even more because he will see it as looking like a mess.

I’ve no idea what sort of guy Ian Gordon etc is, or whoever he is talking about, but I can’t imagine guys with loads of money who are in high positions all of a sudden changing their mind and start taking advice because Foley comes out saying that. More likely to do the opposite

I agree in that I also trust MM to do what is best for the club. Whether he is listened too or trusted by those in charge is another matter

[Real Emerald]

I imagine it will only enrage someone like Malky even more because he will see it as looking like a mess.

I’ve no idea what sort of guy Ian Gordon etc is, or whoever he is talking about, but I can’t imagine guys with loads of money who are in high positions all of a sudden changing their mind and start taking advice because Foley comes out saying that. More likely to do the opposite

The whole thing is bizarre and it’s really not a good sign. Worrying times.

[GreenPJ]

You’ve never heard that from me.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It was said by a lot of people

[Mikey_1875]

It’s hard to comment without knowing what their advice has been

Keep Montgomery?
Hire random foreign manager or one from Bournemouth?
Teenagers on loan?

I genuinely really trust Malky with how he comes across and his knowledge of Scottish football to do the right thing.

Foley coming out with that is just so frustrating though as it just makes us look a shambles again. Toys out the pram because he’s not getting his own way?

Malky already looks to have a hell of a job on his hands mediating between the **** show old guard and the petulant new investor. Hopefully he can bring both parties to their senses.

[SunshineOn1875]

The rot started with Mathie being fired. The positive is that it can be quickly turned around with the right people in charge.I don't think we know how good or bad the recruitment has been over the last 18 months or so because we haven't had the right manager in charge (Johnson and Montgomery were out of their depth). Hopefully David Gray proves a better appointment than both of them but, as a rookie manager, it's not going to be plain sailing and we have to hope that he learns from the inevitable mistakes that he will make in his first season.I promise you no rot at Hibernian started with Graeme Mathie of all people being sacked. That man ignored hibs shortfalls in defence for just as long as the others did. He was one that also needed binned/moved on. A lot started with employing the new owners laddie as head of recruitment.

[James70]

Maybe we should take Foley's advices on board, ignore our Director of Football's recommendations then when everything goes t**ts up we can blame Black Knights for our relegation. He seems to be a typical hard hitting American businessman used to getting his own way then blaming someone else when things go wrong. Have we actually seen any of his cash yet?

[ekhibee]

Chances are we'd be doing exactly what we are now. You don't think him and his son spoke about that planning going forward after he passed?

Ron didn't look like fixing a thing.
Yep, that's certainly how it looks at the moment.

[Hibs90]

I’d like to know why we suddenly had to quickly raise £2m a couple of months ago and where that has gone. There’s something they’re not telling us.

What’s this about? First I’ve heard of it

[Real Emerald]

What’s this about? First I’ve heard of it

The share issue.

[Jones28]

Not sure that individuals with track records in decision making such as Gordon and Kensell really deserve praise for ignoring advice from a group that they’ve just decided bring onboard. If their advice is so useless then why bother in the first place?

If it’s solely about the investment then this means very little on its own when the same people call the shots. Gordon and Kensell keeping ‘control’ isn’t some big win. They’re far more likely to fix their own mess by welcoming some help than by throwing someone else’s money at more of their own poor decisions

Did you want Monty and co to stay?

Me neither. Correct decision, nice guy or not.

Them keeping control is better than someone using us as a training camp for Bournemouth players.

[Jones28]

What’s this about? First I’ve heard of it

Wasn't it to give existing large share holders the chance to purchase more shares to keep their shareholding the same?

[H18 SFR]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c0krjljjwego

"I am absolutely looking out for them," Foley told BBC Sport when asked about the reaction to the weekend defeat.
"If the other ownership group at Hibernian listens to us, they will do better.
"So far, they really haven’t been listening to our input. I believe they will listen to our input now.”

"We have a very good relationship with Lorient. They are listening and are hiring the right people to develop that club.


Probably aligned with most folk in that a rookie manager wasn’t the best idea ever.

[B.H.F.C]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c0krjljjwego

"I am absolutely looking out for them," Foley told BBC Sport when asked about the reaction to the weekend defeat.
"If the other ownership group at Hibernian listens to us, they will do better.
"So far, they really haven’t been listening to our input. I believe they will listen to our input now.”

"We have a very good relationship with Lorient. They are listening and are hiring the right people to develop that club.


Probably aligned with most folk in that a rookie manager wasn’t the best idea ever.

To flip that round, they apparently wanted to keep Monty and I don’t think most folk would have thought that to be the best idea.

[Donegal Hibby]

Foley says " those in charge have not been listening to their input , input about what ? And what if we have listened though just decided to do things differently.

He's bought into the club but doesn't own it , sounds abit like he's throwing his toys out of the pram because he's not getting his own way. Quite frankly the timing of this and going public is in no way helpful to the club , if he has issues then they should be dealt with internally at boardroom level.

This part about" Our goal is to have similar coaching, similar playing style and similar players that can progress through the system, ## it's not going be Bournemouth and a bunch of other clubs.

## That's exactly what it is .. I don't know how other Hibs fans feel though personally I couldn't give a toss about Bournemouth , Lorient or any other clubs Foley buys or gets shares in . All I care about is Hibs .

He's doing alot of talking about moving Bournemouth up the league , champions league etc and now if we listen to them they will make us better too .

Where have I heard another American waffling on about making everything great again...

[04Sauzee]

So going by the EEN, Foley didn't want MM or SDG, if so he's allowed his say but maybe not in public like that , also he has to remember it's a 25% stake in the club he has.

[Ozyhibby]

So going by the EEN, Foley didn't want MM or SDG, if so he's allowed his say but maybe not in public like that , also he has to remember it's a 25% stake in the club he has.

It’s a 25% stake but they were never meant to be silent partners. If Hibs are trying to make them that then they are perfectly entitled to call them out in that.
Anyone who thought BK were silent partners are idiots.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Heisenberg]

It’s a 25% stake but they were never meant to be silent partners. If Hibs are trying to make them that then they are perfectly entitled to call them out in that.
Anyone who thought BK were silent partners are idiots.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That’s fine but I don’t think he should be shouting his mouth off in the press when the club haven’t followed the path he wanted them to. He’s got input and I’m sure Hibs listened but ultimately chose a different way to go, he has to suck that up and get on with it instead of crying to the BBC.

[Ozyhibby]

That’s fine but I don’t think he should be shouting his mouth off in the press when the club haven’t followed the path he wanted them to. He’s got input and I’m sure Hibs listened but ultimately chose a different way to go, he has to suck that up and get on with it instead of crying to the BBC.

If they are consistently ignoring them which is the accusation? Fact is, the club is failing and the people in charge are refusing to listen to anyone. The BK’s are just saying what we are all saying. It sounds like they were saying it privately but that wasn’t working. They have invested money and don’t want to lose it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[04Sauzee]

It’s a 25% stake but they were never meant to be silent partners. If Hibs are trying to make them that then they are perfectly entitled to call them out in that.
Anyone who thought BK were silent partners are idiots.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

They are entitled to an opinion but calling them out in public is a bit different. Not sure anyone didn't expect them to have a say or be 'silent partners'when they have members on the board

[Ozyhibby]

They are entitled to an opinion but calling them out in public is a bit different. Not sure anyone didn't expect them to have a say or be 'silent partners'when they have members on the board

How long should they remain silent if the board don’t listen?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[B.H.F.C]

That’s fine but I don’t think he should be shouting his mouth off in the press when the club haven’t followed the path he wanted them to. He’s got input and I’m sure Hibs listened but ultimately chose a different way to go, he has to suck that up and get on with it instead of crying to the BBC.

Agree. I think it’s really poor what he’s done.

Just because they’ve suggested something, it doesn’t mean we need to go with it. It’s difficult because our own board aren’t exactly famous for their good decision making but, either way, it shouldn’t come to this. Want to control something outright, buy the number of shares that allows you to do that.

[marinello59]

Agree. I think it’s really poor what he’s done.

Just because they’ve suggested something, it doesn’t mean we need to go with it. It’s difficult because our own board aren’t exactly famous for their good decision making but, either way, it shouldn’t come to this. Want to control something outright, buy the number of shares that allows you to do that.

We don’t know what was actually agreed when the investment deal was signed off. I’d be pretty confident though that a hard headed businessman like Foley will have made sure he had some sort of say, minority shareholder or not.

[NC1875]

So BK put forward people for Malky and Grays roles.

And the useless idiots that have employed all the last failures of managers, director of footballs and whatever else went ahead and done what they wanted anyway.

We are ****ed with these clowns in charge.

[Seafield Scott]

I’d like to know why we suddenly had to quickly raise £2m a couple of months ago and where that has gone. There’s something they’re not telling us.
Good question. When Rangers were conducting Share Issues every year, l used laugh my kok off - it told me they were running out of cash to operate as they were spending way more than their revenues. Why did we need to that £2.2m share issue only a few months after BK injected £6m? It was interesting to note that BK didn’t buy anymore shares at that time (think they were able to buy more and keep within the % limit).
I’ve increased concerns with the whole BK involvement, after a few of Foley’s comments (esp where we sit in the pyramid) but I am really pleased the Board seem to be not letting a minority shareholder run the show

[MelbourneHibees]

So BK put forward people for Malky and Grays roles.

And the useless idiots that have employed all the last failures of managers, director of footballs and whatever else went ahead and done what they wanted anyway.

We are ****ed with these clowns in charge.

There's nothing to suggest that has happened.

[NC1875]

There's nothing to suggest that has happened.

According to the EEN article that’s exactly what’s happened

[MrRobot]

It’s a 25% stake but they were never meant to be silent partners. If Hibs are trying to make them that then they are perfectly entitled to call them out in that.
Anyone who thought BK were silent partners are idiots.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

They have the right to bring it up with Hibs but putting it out publicly makes them look amateur and petty IMO.

[Callum_62]

https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/football/hibs/revealed-hibs-decisions-that-prompted-ruthless-billionaire-backers-incendiary-intervention-4712133

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

[The Modfather]

So BK put forward people for Malky and Grays roles.

And the useless idiots that have employed all the last failures of managers, director of footballs and whatever else went ahead and done what they wanted anyway.

We are ****ed with these clowns in charge.

We don’t know who the Black Knights suggested, but it does look like Hibs want to continue with their insular outlook. “We appreciate that you know what you’re doing with Bournemouth & The Golden Knights but actually the answer to all our problems are guys who were already here and we’ll just re-shuffle the deck chairs on the titanic, thanks”.

[NC1875]

We don’t know who the Black Knights suggested, but it does look like Hibs want to continue with their insular outlook. “We appreciate that you know what you’re doing with Bournemouth & The Golden Knights but actually the answer to all our problems are guys who were already here and we’ll just re-shuffle the deck chairs on the titanic, thanks”.

Exactly, when you’ve made so many previous mistakes you’d think you would maybe listen to the guys who have a history of at least knowing what they’re doing.

Instead, McPherson gave his pal a job, who then made up a job for Marshall and Gray got the managers job to give them a bit more time when it inevitably goes wrong!

Glad to see we are making the most of BK’s vast worldwide resources

[K-Zazu]

https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/football/hibs/revealed-hibs-decisions-that-prompted-ruthless-billionaire-backers-incendiary-intervention-4712133

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

Can’t see it? Can someone copy paste

[EVENTUALLY]

I wonder if Bill Foley thinks he has been swindled. Clearly lots of discussions between Black Knights and Gordon/Kensell were held to form a partnership albeit maybe no formal agreement document was put in place to outline the number of player exchanges which may happen or the number of regular meetings to discuss results, scouting, coaching, management, etc. To be fair to Hibs they have stated from the outset that BK were minority shareholders and the Gordon family would be making the final decisions on all matters affecting Hibs. However, you don’t invest £6million in an asset with 2 directors on the board then stand back without attempting to influence things that you believe would improve the club including the eradication of decisions surrounding the recruitment of players and management/head coaches.Saturdays’s defeat proves that you should never under estimate the wider consequences of a bad result, a manager being sacked is the usual norm. If we had skooshed past Kelty then we would be none the wiser as to the present concerns of BK. Bill Foley’s comments provides some transparency that issues clearly exist on and off the pitch at Easter Road.

[B.H.F.C]

We don’t know what was actually agreed when the investment deal was signed off. I’d be pretty confident though that a hard headed businessman like Foley will have made sure he had some sort of say, minority shareholder or not.

He got his seats on the board but what has happened here seems to be in keeping with what Hibs said at the time, in that the final say would always sit with us.

[Ringothedog]

I wonder if Bill Foley thinks he has been swindled. Clearly lots of discussions between Black Knights and Gordon/Kensell were held to form a partnership albeit maybe no formal agreement document was put in place to outline the number of player exchanges which may happen or the number of regular meetings to discuss results, scouting, coaching, management, etc. To be fair to Hibs they have stated from the outset that BK were minority shareholders and the Gordon family would be making the final decisions on all matters affecting Hibs. However, you don’t invest £6million in an asset with 2 directors on the board then stand back without attempting to influence things that you believe would improve the club including the eradication of decisions surrounding the recruitment of players and management/head coaches.Saturdays’s defeat proves that you should never under estimate the wider consequences of a bad result, a manager being sacked is the usual norm. If we had skooshed past Kelty then we would be none the wiser as to the present concerns of BK. Bill Foley’s comments provides some transparency that issues clearly exist on and off the pitch at Easter Road.
Swindled? WTAF

[greenlex]

We don’t know who the Black Knights suggested, but it does look like Hibs want to continue with their insular outlook. “We appreciate that you know what you’re doing with Bournemouth & The Golden Knights but actually the answer to all our problems are guys who were already here and we’ll just re-shuffle the deck chairs on the titanic, thanks”.Continue with their insular outlook? The last appointment and back room staff came from the other side of the world FFS.The appointments smack of cost cutting. If that then leads to better players on the park then that might turn out to be a good thing. Signings under Gray and McKay so far look like improvements so I think we need to be a wee bit patient and let things pan out. Saturday aside things are/were moving in the right direction. Hopefully a blip . We should still progress in the league cup although not as easily as we should have.

[Not In The Know]

Chances are we'd be doing exactly what we are now. You don't think him and his son spoke about that planning going forward after he passed? Ron didn't look like fixing a thing.Ron made mistakes. He even admitted that (Ross) no way he’d be making the same ones again if he was still here. He was a very smart guy and built massive businesses. Ian hasn’t and it shows.

[Scotty Leither]

They are entitled to an opinion but calling them out in public is a bit different. Not sure anyone didn't expect them to have a say or be 'silent partners'when they have members on the boardKensell says a lot of things publically, most of it a lot of *****, and he says it indiscreetly. Sauce for the goose and all that. Ian Gordon says nowt publically, and is protected by MacPherson at AGMs. Club is a rudderless shambles.

[One Day Soon]

I wonder if Bill Foley thinks he has been swindled. Clearly lots of discussions between Black Knights and Gordon/Kensell were held to form a partnership albeit maybe no formal agreement document was put in place to outline the number of player exchanges which may happen or the number of regular meetings to discuss results, scouting, coaching, management, etc. To be fair to Hibs they have stated from the outset that BK were minority shareholders and the Gordon family would be making the final decisions on all matters affecting Hibs. However, you don’t invest £6million in an asset with 2 directors on the board then stand back without attempting to influence things that you believe would improve the club including the eradication of decisions surrounding the recruitment of players and management/head coaches.Saturdays’s defeat proves that you should never under estimate the wider consequences of a bad result, a manager being sacked is the usual norm. If we had skooshed past Kelty then we would be none the wiser as to the present concerns of BK. Bill Foley’s comments provides some transparency that issues clearly exist on and off the pitch at Easter Road.

It's the same in politics. It just takes one event to flare up from nowhere and suddenly you've got a forest fire burning out of control. Now following the Foley intervention people are asking whether the Foley money is there (it is), has it been spent on something else, are we actually skint, why haven't we signed what we need by now and generally WTF is going on?

If we don't make some critical signings of the right type very soon - and certainly in this window - Gordon and Kensell will likely find their matchday experiences at home becoming increasingly audibly unpleasant when the support ultimately finds it voice on all this.

[EVENTUALLY]

Swindled? WTAFOK then. Duped.

[Ringothedog]

OK then. Duped.

Do you really believe that the Black knights had no idea what they were buying into, they would have done their due diligence and will have known exactly what was going to happen and how the relationship would progress going forward.
And your wording of duped is no better than swindled. In both cases you are accusing our owners of an illegal act

[Smartie]

According to the EEN article that’s exactly what’s happened

Presumably with "the facts" very carefully leaked to the right people by folk close to the decision making.

It all smacks of a lack of professionalism to be honest and whilst I'd love to give the usual suspects at Hibs a good kicking, I'm not sure they really deserve it here?

Conversations about these key roles should have taken place but ultimately, can MacKay and Gray's credentials for the roles really be dismissed that easily? The reasons for MacKay being overlooked would be his, er, "other reasons" and not his footballing ones and Gray has been groomed to be head coach at Hibs since he hung up his boots. These aren't wacky decisions, unlike several hundred questionable decisions the club may have made regarding managers and players in recent years.

Foley's blabbing to the press isn't a good look, even if he has a point. And Hibs are well within their rights if they've (for example) acknowledged mistakes they've made in the past then baulked at possibly repeating them under pressure from the Black Knights.

[ancient hibee]

How can anyone take seriously the idea that the right way to do things is to do what a club who have got themselves relegated have done.

[Paulie Walnuts]

He got his seats on the board but what has happened here seems to be in keeping with what Hibs said at the time, in that the final say would always sit with us.

And that’s the way it should be.

I think at the same time though, he’d have a right to feel pissed off when the final decision the club makes is to ignore the suggestions they put forward and instead appoint a manager that’s already here but has never been a manager, a technical performance manager that’s already here but never been a technical performance manager and the chairman’s mate as sporting director when he’s never been a sporting director, two of those roles being the most important roles at the club.

If I was Foley I’d be looking at that and questioning wtf i was doing getting involved with us if you’re going to have two ****ing idiots ignoring your suggestions and just appointing folk they know personally. I said at the time I find it nigh on impossible to believe all these guys happened to be the best choices for the job and I fully expect Foley thinks the same.

[Gordy M]

And that’s the way it should be.I think at the same time though, he’d have a right to feel pissed off when the final decision the club makes is to ignore the suggestions they put forward and instead appoint a manager that’s already here, a technical performance manager that’s already here and the chairman’s mate into roles, two of the roles being the most important roles at the club.If I was Foley I’d be looking at that and questioning wtf i was doing getting involved with us if you’re going to have two ****ing idiots ignoring your suggestions and just appointing folk they know personally.And if we have a successful season, i hope foley will still ve as mouthy snd come out and say, yeh i got it wrong, they got it right.......you think that will happen. Running off to the media is a poor poor show imo.

[MWHIBBIES]

Ron made mistakes. He even admitted that (Ross) no way he’d be making the same ones again if he was still here. He was a very smart guy and built massive businesses. Ian hasn’t and it shows. So why didn't he bin Kensell? Or tell his son to do so? Ron might've been a smart guy but he showed absolutely zero knowledge of running a football club properly. I had zero faith whatsoever in Ron and his laddie has just continued his work here.

[Not In The Know]

TBH this is the last straw for me regarding any semblance of support for the people running our club. The small crumb of comfort was they at least had the business side of the club on the right track. Football was a shambles but we are all led to believe money is flowing in budgets up etc. BUT boardroom squabbles and nae cash for players means even that side of the “business” is a shambles. It’s just plain embarrassing what’s going on.

[Baader]

Presumably with "the facts" very carefully leaked to the right people by folk close to the decision making.

It all smacks of a lack of professionalism to be honest and whilst I'd love to give the usual suspects at Hibs a good kicking, I'm not sure they really deserve it here?

Conversations about these key roles should have taken place but ultimately, can MacKay and Gray's credentials for the roles really be dismissed that easily? The reasons for MacKay being overlooked would be his, er, "other reasons" and not his footballing ones and Gray has been groomed to be head coach at Hibs since he hung up his boots. These aren't wacky decisions, unlike several hundred questionable decisions the club may have made regarding managers and players in recent years.

Foley's blabbing to the press isn't a good look, even if he has a point. And Hibs are well within their rights if they've (for example) acknowledged mistakes they've made in the past then baulked at possibly repeating them under pressure from the Black Knights.

Would agree. If you're a 25% minority owner expecting to run the show you are in for a shock.

Foley should've expressed any concerns via board meetings, not publicly through the media.

[Paulie Walnuts]

And if we have a successful season, i hope foley will still ve as mouthy snd come out and say, yeh i got it wrong, they got it right.......you think that will happen. Running off to the media is a poor poor show imo.

It’s not a poor show if you’re unable to get through to Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell privately, and I have absolutely zero doubt he will have raised this with them behind closed doors.

If we have a great season it would be great to see him come out and say so, yes.

[Davy Mac]

Just read the article, i didn't think for one moment we would patch them after we got the money in the pokey but it seems we have egotistical maniacs at the helm at Hibs.

Hibs better not mess this up as I have very little faith with the hierarchy and MM does come across as a wee bit up his erchie, get rid of your egos and take every bit of help you can.

In my opinion, this might not end well, particularly if the relationship dies and Foley wants out. Only Hibs can fxck this up, seriously.

[matty_f]

Here's why this situation is such a ****ing ****show, (IMHO).

We know there was a long process and many, many discussions while this investment was agreed.

Foley has been absolutely clear in what he wanted to get out of it, and the Gordons were clear that they wanted to retain control/ownership.

That the investment went ahead with both parties happy with the agreement suggests that they both absolutely knew what they were getting into and were on the same page with it.

Since then, we have had Black Knight making appointments which reference how they'll help Hibs while at the same time, people within Hibs making it clear that they're running the show.

Now this from Foley confirms that there's a difference in how they see this working.

We are FOUR months into it. Someone isn't acting in good faith from how those conversations in the run up to the investment being agreed went. That much is apparent. This could be Foley, it could be Gordon. Either way, one hand is not talking to the other (and when it is, the other hand is, presumably, holding up a third hand and saying "tell it to the hand because the other hand isn't listening").

We all knew that Foley saw us as part of a multi-group model that relies in a large degree, to consistency in how the clubs are run across the group. That is not a surprise and so it should not be a ****ing surprise to Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell either.

I don't think we're taking wild leaps of the imagination at this point, this seems like a fairly logical way to think about the situation.

We then hire the Chairman's pal - to much ire and derision from a lot of the support - to a key role, and we find out now that this was against the advice of Black Knight FC.

Of course, Gordon is entirely within his rights to ignore the advice, and who knows, he might even be right to - we'll find out in the fullness of time. As it happens, I have no major gripe with the work Malky has done so far.

What is alarming though, is that decision is taken and in a moment separates us from the group. The multi-club model, Foley said, doesn't work if clubs do their own thing.

Bravo, Ian, bravo.

To then hire a manager that again is away from Foley's advice isn't a crime, I think we were by and large happy with SDG's appointment (I know I was), and Gordon might feel that he knows better than Foley in this case.

But again, it's out of step with the group. We are an outlier because of the decision making of either our owner, our CEO, or both.

This might yield short term results, but long term, where the real ****ing benefit of the multi club model and the investment lay, we're out the loop. We're now not a great fit for players that Black Knight want to sign into the group and develop.

That's shooting ourselves in the foot to a ridiculous degree, and in football, shooting yourself in the foot is about as dumb an idea as you can have.

It genuinely feels to me like Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell have sat in meetings with Foley, heard £6m mentioned, went into a wee day dream where everything Foley said is white noise in the background, and they've tuned in just in time to hear him say "you'll still have full control". And they'll be surprised now that Foley's a bit miffed about it all.

There's no good look for anyone with this, if Gordon and Kensell are right to shun the advice then you have to wonder why the **** they brought Foley in in the first place other than to get a quick hit of £6m, because this is a sure-fire way to make sure you don't see that money coming in again.

And if they're wrong to shun the advice, which I think they are because I have seen what their decision making has done to the club so far, then they need a massive metaphorical boot to the baws for it.

Four months. Folk will blame Black Knights for it, but we've seen for a number of years now where the issues at the club stem from.

[Not In The Know]

So why didn't he bin Kensell? Or tell his son to do so? Ron might've been a smart guy but he showed absolutely zero knowledge of running a football club properly. I had zero faith whatsoever in Ron and his laddie has just continued his work here.There’s a very good chance he would have by now.

[B.H.F.C]

And that’s the way it should be.

I think at the same time though, he’d have a right to feel pissed off when the final decision the club makes is to ignore the suggestions they put forward and instead appoint a manager that’s already here but has never been a manager, a technical performance manager that’s already here but never been a technical performance manager and the chairman’s mate as sporting director when he’s never been a sporting director, two of those roles being the most important roles at the club.

If I was Foley I’d be looking at that and questioning wtf i was doing getting involved with us if you’re going to have two ****ing idiots ignoring your suggestions and just appointing folk they know personally. I said at the time I find it nigh on impossible to believe all these guys happened to be the best choices for the job and I fully expect Foley thinks the same.

I think he’s well within his rights to question and challenge them. Going to the press in the way he has isn’t helpful to nobody though.

Incidentally, if it’s right that one of their suggestions was to keep Montgomery, then it’s just as well we didn’t take their advice.

[Gordy M]

It’s not a poor show if you’re unable to get through to Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell privately, and I have absolutely zero doubt he will have raised this with them behind closed doors.If we have a great season it would be great to see him come out and say so, yes.And what has been gained by coming out in the press? What has been achieved by that, that helps the club he owns 25% off? Zero apart from further piss off fans.

[Not In The Know]

TBH this is the last straw for me regarding any semblance of support for the people running our club. The small crumb of comfort was they at least had the business side of the club on the right track. Football was a shambles but we are all led to believe money is flowing in budgets up etc. BUT boardroom squabbles and nae cash for players means even that side of the “business” is a shambles. It’s just plain embarrassing what’s going on.

[MelbourneHibees]

How does Foley envisage all clubs following the same coaching methods and playing the same style of football in vastly different leagues?

[ChuckNor]

If Foley wanted to dictate what we do he could’ve bought the club. He didn’t.

Regardless, this whole thing is an indictement of the people running our club. So clear that the due diligence done by the board and Kensell was completely inadequate.

[Heisenberg]

If Foley wanted to dictate what we do he could’ve bought the club. He didn’t.

Regardless, this whole thing is an indictement of the people running our club. So clear that the due diligence done by the board and Kensell was completely inadequate.

Thought the fact that he owns Bournemouth would stop him also being able to own Hibs?

[Paulie Walnuts]

Here's why this situation is such a ****ing ****show, (IMHO).

We know there was a long process and many, many discussions while this investment was agreed.

Foley has been absolutely clear in what he wanted to get out of it, and the Gordons were clear that they wanted to retain control/ownership.

That the investment went ahead with both parties happy with the agreement suggests that they both absolutely knew what they were getting into and were on the same page with it.

Since then, we have had Black Knight making appointments which reference how they'll help Hibs while at the same time, people within Hibs making it clear that they're running the show.

Now this from Foley confirms that there's a difference in how they see this working.

We are FOUR months into it. Someone isn't acting in good faith from how those conversations in the run up to the investment being agreed went. That much is apparent. This could be Foley, it could be Gordon. Either way, one hand is not talking to the other (and when it is, the other hand is, presumably, holding up a third hand and saying "tell it to the hand because the other hand isn't listening").

We all knew that Foley saw us as part of a multi-group model that relies in a large degree, to consistency in how the clubs are run across the group. That is not a surprise and so it should not be a ****ing surprise to Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell either.

I don't think we're taking wild leaps of the imagination at this point, this seems like a fairly logical way to think about the situation.

We then hire the Chairman's pal - to much ire and derision from a lot of the support - to a key role, and we find out now that this was against the advice of Black Knight FC.

Of course, Gordon is entirely within his rights to ignore the advice, and who knows, he might even be right to - we'll find out in the fullness of time. As it happens, I have no major gripe with the work Malky has done so far.

What is alarming though, is that decision is taken and in a moment separates us from the group. The multi-club model, Foley said, doesn't work if clubs do their own thing.

Bravo, Ian, bravo.

To then hire a manager that again is away from Foley's advice isn't a crime, I think we were by and large happy with SDG's appointment (I know I was), and Gordon might feel that he knows better than Foley in this case.

But again, it's out of step with the group. We are an outlier because of the decision making of either our owner, our CEO, or both.

This might yield short term results, but long term, where the real ****ing benefit of the multi club model and the investment lay, we're out the loop. We're now not a great fit for players that Black Knight want to sign into the group and develop.

That's shooting ourselves in the foot to a ridiculous degree, and in football, shooting yourself in the foot is about as dumb an idea as you can have.

It genuinely feels to me like Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell have sat in meetings with Foley, heard £6m mentioned, went into a wee day dream where everything Foley said is white noise in the background, and they've tuned in just in time to hear him say "you'll still have full control". And they'll be surprised now that Foley's a bit miffed about it all.

There's no good look for anyone with this, if Gordon and Kensell are right to shun the advice then you have to wonder why the **** they brought Foley in in the first place other than to get a quick hit of £6m, because this is a sure-fire way to make sure you don't see that money coming in again.

And if they're wrong to shun the advice, which I think they are because I have seen what their decision making has done to the club so far, then they need a massive metaphorical boot to the baws for it.

Four months. Folk will blame Black Knights for it, but we've seen for a number of years now where the issues at the club stem from.

Agree with every word.

I’m massively surprised at the reaction to this and the fact that most folk seem to think that Gordon and Kensell, who are both a shambles, are the ones in the right here.

[The Modfather]

Would agree. If you're a 25% minority owner expecting to run the show you are in for a shock.

Foley should've expressed any concerns via board meetings, not publicly through the media.

“Expecting to run the show” is one way to put it. Another way to look at it is that Hibs have demonstrated over a number of years they don’t know what they’re doing on the football side (B team - DOF - Sporting Director). The Black Knights can point to Bournemouth and the Vegas team to show they know how to make good sporting decisions.

Foley probably looked at it as Hibs being delighted to get help with the football side and the football decisions. As it turns out it looks like Hibs were happy to take the money but continue to make the football decisions themselves despite how disastrous they have been at doing so over the last 4 or 5 years.

If I was Foley I’d feel like a cash cow rather than someone being embraced to help with the weakest area of the club, the football side.

[RIP]

Are we really going to take notice of the wittering of an old Yank half way between Trump and Biden in age and whose French club have just been relegated? 😅 He might be a billionaire but clearly no expert in fitba in every country.

I'll put my trust in men who know the Scottish game thanks.

[Ozyhibby]

It sounds like the cost of appointing Mackay, Gray and Marshall is being cut off from BK’s wealth of player pool and expertise.
They are going to have to be very special at their job to make up for that.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Scotty Leither]

Here's why this situation is such a ****ing ****show, (IMHO). We know there was a long process and many, many discussions while this investment was agreed.Foley has been absolutely clear in what he wanted to get out of it, and the Gordons were clear that they wanted to retain control/ownership.That the investment went ahead with both parties happy with the agreement suggests that they both absolutely knew what they were getting into and were on the same page with it.Since then, we have had Black Knight making appointments which reference how they'll help Hibs while at the same time, people within Hibs making it clear that they're running the show.Now this from Foley confirms that there's a difference in how they see this working.We are FOUR months into it. Someone isn't acting in good faith from how those conversations in the run up to the investment being agreed went. That much is apparent. This could be Foley, it could be Gordon. Either way, one hand is not talking to the other (and when it is, the other hand is, presumably, holding up a third hand and saying "tell it to the hand because the other hand isn't listening").We all knew that Foley saw us as part of a multi-group model that relies in a large degree, to consistency in how the clubs are run across the group. That is not a surprise and so it should not be a ****ing surprise to Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell either.I don't think we're taking wild leaps of the imagination at this point, this seems like a fairly logical way to think about the situation.We then hire the Chairman's pal - to much ire and derision from a lot of the support - to a key role, and we find out now that this was against the advice of Black Knight FC.Of course, Gordon is entirely within his rights to ignore the advice, and who knows, he might even be right to - we'll find out in the fullness of time. As it happens, I have no major gripe with the work Malky has done so far.What is alarming though, is that decision is taken and in a moment separates us from the group. The multi-club model, Foley said, doesn't work if clubs do their own thing.Bravo, Ian, bravo.To then hire a manager that again is away from Foley's advice isn't a crime, I think we were by and large happy with SDG's appointment (I know I was), and Gordon might feel that he knows better than Foley in this case.But again, it's out of step with the group. We are an outlier because of the decision making of either our owner, our CEO, or both.This might yield short term results, but long term, where the real ****ing benefit of the multi club model and the investment lay, we're out the loop. We're now not a great fit for players that Black Knight want to sign into the group and develop.That's shooting ourselves in the foot to a ridiculous degree, and in football, shooting yourself in the foot is about as dumb an idea as you can have.It genuinely feels to me like Ian Gordon and Ben Kensell have sat in meetings with Foley, heard £6m mentioned, went into a wee day dream where everything Foley said is white noise in the background, and they've tuned in just in time to hear him say "you'll still have full control". And they'll be surprised now that Foley's a bit miffed about it all.There's no good look for anyone with this, if Gordon and Kensell are right to shun the advice then you have to wonder why the **** they brought Foley in in the first place other than to get a quick hit of £6m, because this is a sure-fire way to make sure you don't see that money coming in again.And if they're wrong to shun the advice, which I think they are because I have seen what their decision making has done to the club so far, then they need a massive metaphorical boot to the baws for it.Four months. Folk will blame Black Knights for it, but we've seen for a number of years now where the issues at the club stem from.Great summary...Someone has got to swallow a bit of humble pie here to move this whole **** show forward, and I don't at this stage see that happening. As I've said a few times, Gordon's radio silence on all matters at ER and his non-communication with the fans really grinds my gears. It smacks of ignorance and condescension and MacPherson's interview re how good a job Kensell is doing and the fans "don't understand" was a contiuum of that "let them eat cake" attitude. I've always found MacPherson to be a typical buttoned-up lawyer in the "good morning but don't quote me" type indicative of that profession, and his was a poor appointment too, IMO. Certainly not the dynamic sort we need at Hibernian football club in a senior role, that's for sure.Humility is in short supply on both sides, and no matter how much a high roller Foley is in the business, world, brinkmanship never really finds a consensus either. Heids need butted together here, and does anyone on the Board fancy playing the peacemaker? I doubt it, sadly.

[K-Zazu]

If Foley wanted to dictate what we do he could’ve bought the club. He didn’t.

Regardless, this whole thing is an indictement of the people running our club. So clear that the due diligence done by the board and Kensell was completely inadequate.

Wouldn’t be allowed. Owns a club in England.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Agree with every word.I’m massively surprised at the reaction to this and the fact that most folk seem to think that Gordon and Kensell, who are both a shambles, are the ones in the right here.Some of us aren't particularly happy with either party.

[matty_f]

Some of us aren't particularly happy with either party.

And that’s fair as well, having this out in the open does nobody any favours.

[degenerated]

I've no idea how you get it's kensells fault or he didn't understand what the BK investment was

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using TapatalkJust make it up and it sticks, it's how this forum works.

[B.H.F.C]

Agree with every word.

I’m massively surprised at the reaction to this and the fact that most folk seem to think that Gordon and Kensell, who are both a shambles, are the ones in the right here.

I think it’s almost impossible to draw any conclusion without knowing what has went on, what advice we’ve ignored and so on.

Whoever is in the wrong, and even if we knew what has went on it would still probably be subjective as to who was right/wrong, it just looks really, really *****. It does us no favours whatsoever.

[Col2]

Agree with every word.

I’m massively surprised at the reaction to this and the fact that most folk seem to think that Gordon and Kensell, who are both a shambles, are the ones in the right here.

Anyone who thinks that these two clowns are getting anything right needs to wake up. They have a cosy relationship which avoids any scrutiny or accountability.

Kensall thinks he is a playboy and Gordon thinks he is in his favourite movie Moneyball. I cant remember a single interview with Gordon and about 2 with Kensall.