News & Star column 21.11.19

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A reported new approach to United hierarchy was a big talking point among fans on social media this week.

As I write CUOSC have no meaningful information on the proposal ‘to help the club’ by a consortium of businessmen involving ex-players Chris Lumsdon and Steve Skinner and are seeking some clarity.  Like all fans, we only want what is best for the club.

As a stake-holder, CUOSC have representatives on the club’s main Holdings Board and the operational 1921 Board and this approach has not been discussed by either group.

However, we have said for a long time that changes in the board room are required if United are to become a force to be reckoned with again. We need directors, fans and everyone else pulling in the same direction.

The club realise that a lack of succession of ownership is holding them back and CUOSC continue to work to help find a way forward.

We have backed efforts made by the club to make it more attractive to potential investors with shareholder debt being wiped out by its conversion to equity and by reducing costs across the board.

Despite these positive effects on the club’s financial health United are still losing around £500,000 a season and reliant on EWM for their backing. We continue to press them about their future intentions.

With the Blues now also looking for a head coach there is plenty for fans to debate.

It is important the club make the right appointment but with the January transfer window approaching time is of the essence.

CUOSC have decided to hold a members meeting before Christmas. It will give supporters a chance to question their representatives.

The provisional date is Saturday, December 14, before the home game with Grimsby. It will take place in the Sunset Suite between 11am and 12.30.

It is with regret that CUOSC report that our chairman John Kukuc has decided to stand down and leave the board.

We are extremely grateful for the work he has done over the last few years. He is always keen to challenge viewpoints and his experience has been valuable to us. He knows he would be welcome back on the board at any time in the future.

We will be holding our regular pre-match supporters’ surgery before the Cambridge home game on Saturday. It is held in the study centre next to club shop between 1.30-2.30pm.