Birmingham City's Peter Pannu has come out fighting in response to the recent spate of criticism of the club and various concerns raised about transfers and financial policy.
Blues acting chairman and Carson Yeung's right-hand man issued a bullish message that the constant negativity should stop and everyone connected with, or concerned about, the club should pull together.
Peter Pannu on ROBBIE KEANE
"This was not a publicity stunt and I was disappointed that the player should say that. Keane had spoken extensively with our captain [Stephen Carr] and had no interest to come to the Midlands as he feels his place is in London somewhere.
"All parties concerned, including our captain, were involved to make it happen. Unfortunately, upon further reflection in Hong Kong, I was requested to pull out of the deal as it is not financially viable to do it.
"I support Hong Kong on this but we shall not forget offers had in the past gone out at between £8 million - £10 million for players which, due to events beyond our control, had not happened. Of late, Kenny Miller as well.
"So for fans or anyone to question the sincerity of the owners I feel is a bit unfair. Where there is value, where they will play, where the team will be improved - we shall continue to support Alex McLeish, as has always been the case, to strengthen the team.
"It may not happen as readily as when Carson Yeung was first here, as I have said before, the dust has settled and so has the nerve, and people just think a bit more carefully when they spend and I don’t blame anybody as there are just conflicts of interest and views from people involved in this game.
"I was saddened to see Chelsea fans putting up banners in the street suggesting that their manager and Roman Ambramovic should leave due to the bad form of late.
"They have forgotten that Roman had spent over £700 million and had brought glory to the club. If Roman is getting that, what chance do other owners have? Owners can never truly win in this game."
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