The fans groups who want Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson to relinquish his shares have clarified that they do not want to take control of them.
The Federation of Dundee United Supporters Clubs, Fans United and the Dundee United Supporters Foundation all want to see Thompson sever all ties with the club when he stands down as chairman at the end of the season.
And they have also made it clear vice-chairman Mike Martin is not seen as a suitable replacement for him.
That was stressed in a joint statement issued by the three groups on Thursday.
However, while they want the chairman gone from Tannadice, they have no wish to take on Thompson’s majority shareholding.
While the chairman may consider selling up, he is not of a mind to simply relinquish his stake in United.
The other influential supporters’ group, ArabTRUST, have not yet reacted to the news the club chairman is going.
They have an associate director on the club board.
There is a feeling among supporters groups that if Thompson is serious about selling his majority shareholding at Tannadice a buyer could be found.
While they are keen for a change at the top of the club, the groups have urged fans to continue backing the team as they bid to win promotion back to the Premiership after an absence of two seasons.
And despite the strained relationship between the board and a section of the support, United remain by far and away the best supported club in the Championship this season.
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