Usmanov upbeat on Gunners
02 Oct 2007 - 10:45:26
Arsenal investor Alisher Usmanov believes his recent purchase of 23 per cent of the club's shares can benefit football back in his homeland.
The Russian billionaire upped his stake in the Gunners last week through his Red and White Holdings company to increase speculation that he is planning a full takeover approach.
But rather than see foreign investment in Premier League teams as a problem, Usmanov believes it can have a positive effect on football back in Russia.
Meanwhile, newspaper reports have suggested that Usmanov was interested in acquiring a majority stake in Liverpool last season before turning his attention to the Gunners.
"There's nothing wrong if Russian money is to be invested into the world's best football club," he said.
"Together we will be able to succeed and it will enable us, as Russians, to learn how to create a football team.
"What's wrong with that?
"As a shareholder, and as a fan, I'm going to enjoy it and I will share my experience if our relationship with the club lasts long enough.
"When Dinamo and Arsenal played a match in 1945, it helped double the popularity of football in this country.
"Maybe we'll live long enough to see it happen again."