Kevin McCabe is set to continue the long-running battle over who owns Sheffield United.
Kevin McCabe chairman of Sheffield United (Photo by Catherine Ivill/AMA/AMA/Corbis via Getty Images)
The former chairman, who was removed from his position after losing his High Court battle with Prince Abdullah, is set to lodge an appeal against the ruling.
The Sheffield Star confirmed earlier today that McCabe will make the appeal. It further prolongs the uncertainty surrounding the club. According to the report, it could be six months before a decision is even made over if the appeal is valid.
Kevin McCabe and Prince Abdullah (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Getty Images)
McCabe has been involved with Sheffield United for over two decades. However, a 2013 deal with Prince Abdullah has ultimately led to him being ousted as owner. A ruling earlier in the summer gave the Saudi businessman full control of the Blades.
But McCabe is not wanting to relent, admitting he has some ‘misgivings’ about the outcome.
“As I said, when the outcome of the trial was made public, I do have misgivings about some aspects of the judgement. I hope that the Court of Appeal agree to have another look at it,” McCabe said.
Despite lodging an appeal, the former chairman insisted it wouldn’t affect first-team affairs.
“The McCabe family remain passionate supporters of Sheffield United Football Club. We are delighted at the recent run of form for both the first team and the women’s team. It goes without saying that the appeal will not in any way impact on the club’s efforts on the pitch. In this regard at least the Prince and I are on the same side.”
Fans not happy
Ever since the original court date was decided, fans have been divided. However, the longer it has gone on, the more the Blades supporters just want it done and dusted.
This continuation of proceedings from McCabe has not gone down well with some fans. Some even took the time out on Twitter last night to call on McCabe to call it a day.
The fans don’t want this Kev…. just go with dignity and pride and sit in the directors box watching the rise!
— Dane (@daneshaw8) November 4, 2019
He really needs to give his head a wobble. Its not about him. Our Club is on the rise. This decision could set us back. I don't believe this is in anyone's interest. I do hope it is dismissed and put to bed. 😡
— Chris Hughes (@ChrisHu45292304) November 4, 2019
Give it a rest Kevin. You had a good run…
— Paul Broughton.. (@paulbroughton19) November 4, 2019
One supported was particularly sick of the former owner. He called him out for only being interested in himself…
6 Months to decide if McCabe’s appeal is valid. 2 Years for another court case to go ahead if it is. Don’t be fooled, he’s never been a Blade. He’s a Kevin McCabe fan and is only interested in himself. Potentially Very Turbulent times ahead. #TwitterBlades
— Luke Shepherd (@Luke_1889) November 4, 2019
Other Blades fans are not happy with McCabe. They are becoming more suspicious of his motives it seems…
But, he's a Sheffield United fan through and through and he's only doing what is right for the club.
Cheers Kevin.
🤦🏻♂️
— DH (@Dandulum) November 4, 2019
So he can sell it at the first opportunity to the highest bidder. That's his sole reason for appealing sadly.
— Jason Kinder (@JasonKinder38) November 4, 2019
Totally the wrong move from mcabe time to leave graciously
— Kaztec Design (@KaztecDesign) November 4, 2019
Blades fans will be hoping this doesn’t affect team matters. United went sixth in the Premier League at the weekend with a win over Burnley.