Vincent Tan breaks silence after Cardiff City relegation and hits back at fan accusations
Vincent Tan breaks silence after Cardiff City relegation and hits back at fan accusations
The Bluebirds saw their relegation to the Championship confirmed last weekend
Cardiff City owner Vincent Tan
(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency )
Cardiff City owner Vincent Tan has spoken for the first time in years and hit back at those questioning his commitment to the club, insisting he's determined to turn their fortunes around following a disastrous relegation to League One.
After a wretched season, the Bluebirds' fate was finally sealed courtesy of a 0-0 draw with West Bromwich Albion, with the club sinking to the third tier for the first time in 22 years.
Supporters have predictably reacted with sadness, and indeed frustration, much of which has been aimed at Tan and the rest of the board. Join the Cardiff City breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community.
The Cardiff City Supporters' Trust recently requested an urgent meeting with Tan "to discuss the failings which have culminated in our relegation to hear what fundamental changes are going to be put in place throughout the club from top to bottom to avoid further failings in future". Sign up to our daily Cardiff City newsletter here.
Yesterday, WalesOnline penned an open letter to the owner urging communication with supporters.
In response to growing fan discontent, Tan said in a statement on Tuesday morning: "I wish to acknowledge the open letter that has been issued by our supporters' trust. We hear your words and I share your hurt and frustration. Not all decisions when it comes to the first team have worked as I had hoped for us.
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"To lose our place in the Championship is upsetting. The important thing is that we regain it at the earliest opportunity and I would like to take this chance to tell you that I am committed to getting us back. A period of review is being undertaken; a permanent manager and management team will be appointed in the coming weeks. As a point of developing strategy, our board of directors have begun internal discussions with executive management and staff to strategise and plan for the summer and new season."
Tan also hit back at critics, many of whom have questioned his level of interest in the team's fortunes over the last few years.
"To say I don't care is wrong and I strongly push back on that," he added. "I watch every game and speak to the board and manager before and after each one. My family will tell you: I kick every ball!
"We have enjoyed good times together. I can tell all Cardiff City supporters that it is my intention to support correcting the situation we find ourselves in. I want us to all pull in the same direction.
"I will make every effort to be in Cardiff at the next opportunity that my scheduling allows. I am sorry that we are where we are this summer. It is now time to rebuild."
The club has also released as statement acknowledging the Trust's comments, and echoed Tan's insistence that a thorough review of all areas of the club would be undertaken in response to what's been a traumatic season for everyone in the capital.
"The club and its board of directors acknowledge the recent communication from Cardiff City Supporters' Trust and the overwhelming feeling of supporter sadness and frustration that accompanies us leaving the Championship for the 2025/26 season.
"We hear you.
"This will be the first time in 22 years that Cardiff City Football Club has not been a Premier League or Championship club and it's a reality that we are determined to address and correct at the earliest opportunity.
"To have the best chance of achieving this, there will be a thorough period of review across several structures and practices. This review has begun and involves the owner, board, executive management and stakeholders. It will culminate in the appointment and announcement of a new permanent manager and management team that can sculpt and coach a competitive squad through pre-season and into the 2025/26 campaign.
"This message has been internally communicated to club staff as the first point of a developing strategy. We commit to communicating further strategy points with you as the summer progresses; as appointments are made; as our revamped playing squad takes shape; and as we rebuild.
"Thank you for your support."
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Cardiff end their Championship campaign with a trip to Norwich City on Saturday.
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