David Sullivan completes West Ham takeover

West Ham United finally sealed new ownership on Monday night in a deal with David Sullivan, who acquired 50 per cent of the club.

The 60-year-old, who is a life-long Hammers fan and was brought up in the local area, declared his delight at being able to run the club.

“I enjoyed running Birmingham City for 16-and-a-half years, but everyone there knew my true love was always West Ham United,” Mr Sullivan said.

He added: “It will be an immense privilege to lead this great football club and more importantly its supporters.

The new majority shareholder has already set his short-term aims for the team for the remainder of the current campaign, and hinted at the possibility of player acquisitions.

“Our first priority has to be securing the Premier League status of West Ham. I believe the players at this club have shown great commitment in trying circumstances and the new board and I will get behind them in every way we can.”

“We will also look to bring in new players to supplement the squad where needed once we have met with the manager,” Mr Sullivan added.

He also said that it was important that the club be stabilised to allow for a clean-up of recent financial problems.

“West Ham United need stability after all the recent upheavals,” he continued. “We appointed four managers and parted company with two at Birmingham in 16 years. We believe in our managers and give them the time and support they need.”

David Gold has been appointed joint chairman while Karen Brady has been appointed vice-chairman. Both have long-term working relationships with Mr Sullivan, having worked with him at his previous club, Birmingham City.

There were thought to be two other serious bidders in the running last night before Sullivan’s party sealed the deal.