BRENTFORD'S new chairman Eddie Rogers has denied that managing director Gary Hargraves has been forced out of the club after learning that he would lose his title following a boardroom reshuffle (writes TONY FLOOD).

Rogers says: "Gary declined to take up an alternative position as an executive director alongside John McGlashan and Stephen Callen. Gary's role had changed as previously his title of MD had effectively made him the sole executive director. We decided to no longer have an MD, and now the two remaining executive directors will cope with the day-to-day running of the club with my help.

"But Gary was not forced out. He simply felt it was the right time to go after being brought to the club by my predecessor Ron Noades five years ago."

Hargraves comments: "Although I would no longer have been MD, I would not have had a lesser role had I stayed. As one of three executive directors, I would have shared the ultimate responsibility for running the club. Previously the buck had stopped with Ron Noades and, although Eddie has succeeded him, he is a non-executive chairman. But I would have needed to consult the others instead of acting on my own."

Rogers adds: "We now have three members of supporters trust Bees United on the board in John McGlashan, Stephen Callen and Andrew Wainwright. But we are not being naive in thinking that fans can run the club. We have actually strengthened the board. Stephen is a chartered accountant, Andrew is a solicitor and John has great administrative experience.

"Bees United have joined with the remaining board in a partnership that should see the club work within its resources for a successful future. In contrast with Ron Noades, we are committed to staying at Griffin Park until we can find a permanent new ground, hopefully at Lionel Road, Station, in four years time."

Brentford's sponsors GMB have pulled out after five years which will mean a loss of £60,000 a year. But the club are in discussion with prospective new sponsors.

May 30, 2003 11:30