Thursday Sep 29 2005 22:27
Ken Bates has brought his controversial 22-year reign as
Chelsea chairman to an end by announcing his resignation.
The 72-year-old sold his shareholding to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich during the summer, but was given a contract to continue as football club chairMan Until the end of next season.
Since the takeover he has seen his influence at Stamford Bridge diminish greatly, with Bruce Buck being appointed chairman of the club's parent company Chelsea Village and Peter Kenyon being brought in from Manchester United to oversee the day-to-day running of the football club.
Bates announced his decision in a speech to supporters, staff and directors at his monthly Chairman's Supper Club on Tuesday.
He is now free to take control at another club should he wish, although he has denied rumours that he is set to buy a stake in Sheffield Wednesday.
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