Crystal Palace Chairman Encourages Investment in the Club

Crystal Palace are in their third successive season in the Premier League. After years of flitting between the Championship and England’s top division, the Eagles have finally established themselves as a formidable force under Tony Pulis and now the polarizing Alan Pardew.

Co-chairman Steve Parish is an ambition businessman, yet he realises the trajectory that Palace are on, can only continue if the club seeks external investment. News broke earlier this month that Parish was welcoming investment from American businessmen David Blitzer and Josh Harris.

Regardless of this investment, Parish will still remain as the major shareholder at Selhurst Park, and his commitment to the cause hasn’t changed. He still intends on being involved and in charge “on a day-to-day basis.” In an interview with Sky Sports he stated, “The decision-making and day-to-day control will stay the same, but obviously there will be some fresh ideas and fresh input which is great.”

Parish went on to say how important is what to “retain the soul of the football club,” thus his three other partners would continue to be involved after the agreement regarding investment from Blitzer and Harris had been agreed. One of the first things they will look to initiate, is to improve the stadium. He also emphasised how important it was that the “club didn’t stand still,” because the club is “too big and has too much potential.”

It’s encouraging news for Eagles fans, as they will hope that Pardew is given the funds to bring in players of the ilk of French midfield lynchpin, Yohan Cabaye who they signed from Paris St. Germain in the summer for a reported £15 million.

It’s also worth noting the American duo aren’t your ordinary businessmen. They have experience with US sports teams, and are currently heavily involved with basketball team Philadelphia 76ers and NHL franchise New Jersey Devils.

Parish who bought the club in 201o with fellow businessmen Martin Long, Stephen Browett and Jeremy Hosking was quick to speak of the American’s love for the club. “They’ve fallen in love with the club.” Parish feels they have a deep understanding of the ethos and culture at Palace, and feels they will be the perfect fit to help drive the club forward.

Palace fans will undoubtedly be excited by the rumours that are circulating. Manager Alan Pardew has a slew of talent to call upon, but there’s also a lot of room for improvement especially if the club’s board is eyeing a Europa League finish this season or next.

With the American’s investment said to be completed imminently, Pardew could have extra funds to dip into the transfer market in January. If, so expect him to bolster his attacking options, as the club are desperate for a 20-goal-a-season striker.

How far do you think Palace can go with this new investment?