Former Premier League boss Scudamore joins A-League as special advisor

Richard Scudamore, who was CEO of the English Premier League from 1999 until 2018, has been appointed as a 'Special Advisor' to the A-League clubs and competition boss Greg O'Rourke.

Scudamore

Man City manager Pep Guardiola shakes hands with Premier League Chief Executive Richard Scudamore in 2018. Source: Getty Images

Scudamore oversaw the Premier League's global rise, with central revenues rising from £148 million ($280M AUD) in the 1997-98 season to £3.2 billion (6.05B) this season.

With both crowd numbers and tv ratings down for the opening round of the A-League season that kicked off on the weekend, club bosses will be hoping that Scudamore's experience and expertise can help revive the competition.
The move was announced Wednesday morning by the Australian Professional Football Clubs Association (APFCA).

“We are delighted that Richard has agreed to work with us. His leadership of the English Premier League saw the organisation become renowned for its commercial success as well as its contribution to other leagues and communities," APFCA Chairman and Western Sydney Wanderers owner Paul Lederer said. 

While Scudamore was widely praised for his stewardship that saw an incredible rise in revenues, he faced controversy over an increase in foreign owners of Premier League clubs, the proposed 'Game 39' that would have seen a Premier League match played overseas for the first time and leaked emails that contained sexist language - something Scudamore apologised for when they became public. 

Scudamore' role as Special Advisor to APFCA and O’Rourke will see him visit Australia on numerous occasions throughout the upcoming season and provide ongoing strategic counsel and tactical input.

His first visit is scheduled for mid-November when he will attend strategic planning meetings, workshops, visit clubs and attend games.

In a statement released by APFCA, Scudamore was quoted as saying he was excited by the opportunity. 

“I am obviously delighted to be involved at such an important and exciting time for the professional game in Australia," Scudamore said.

"The strategic planning that has taken place is impressive and I believe I can very much help build on that work.

"The Australian game has so much potential for growth and global resonance. There is clearly the necessary commitment from the Clubs to realise that potential as quickly as possible.”


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2 min read
Published 16 October 2019 9:44am
Source: SBS The World Game


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