Imps Will Beat The Credit Crunch

Last updated : 16 October 2008 By Gary Hutchinson

Lincoln City chairman Steff Wright has moved to quell fears Lincoln might be one of a number of clubs affected by the current credit crunch.

As we well no City are no stranger to financial trouble, having survived a period in administration back in 2002. However since then the club has made great strides to remain on a sound financial footing.

Wright told local radio "We've paid back our loans over the past few years and aren't exposed to debts so we're in a strong position. Providing the economy of Lincoln stays strong, and I believe it will, I think we will ride out the storm."

Wright has reason to believe the Lincoln economy will remain strong, especially given the popularity of the University. Despite the credit crunch crowds over the last few games are actually up, with over 4,000 people attending the last two home matches. This is in part due to some excellent work from the commercial department offering sections of fans cut price tickets.

However it is estimated that the Premier League clubs alone have collective debts of around £3bn and three of Lincoln's League Two rivals, Rotherham, Bournemouth and Luton were hit hard by points deductions due to financial irregularities.

Wright believes however that the Imps learned lessons of the past and won't be falling foul of the global money crisis.

"Throwing money at a situation isn't always the best way to get results," he admitted. "We put a lot more money into the budget six or seven years ago and had two dreadful seasons. We realised quickly that it's about appointing the right people and building the right fabric at the football club."

By 'the right people' Steff is surely referring in the main to Peter Jackson, Iffy Onoura, and possibly the likes of experienced defender Frank Sinclair.

"Being cautious doesn't mean we're not ambitious, just that we've built on a sound base."

Steff was partly responding to ridiculous internet based criticism from some Imps fans that they don't want promotion. However it is quite clear from the chairmans words that there is a difference between a lack of ambition, and ensuring the clubs longer financial future.