Source: Team_Talk
Murray departure splits Gers fans
Murray, who has been the owner of the Govan club since 1988, caused a stir among the Light Blue legions on Wednesday when he announced that he is to step down as a board director and chairman.[LNB]He will be succeeded as chairman by Alastair Johnston, 61, a director of the club for the last five years.[LNB]The Rangers Supporters Assembly, the umbrella organisation that represents all Rangers supporters groups around the world, paid tribute to Murray's period as chairman with president Andy Kerr saying: "Rangers fans all over the world will be united today in paying tribute to the passion and commitment Sir David has shown for Rangers over the past 20 years.[LNB]However, in contrast to the views of the Assembly, the Rangers Supporters Trust has called for "radical" changes at the club.[LNB]Trust chairman Stephen Smith said: "Every Rangers fan recognises the former chairman's commitment and the success that the club has enjoyed since 1988 and we wish Sir David Murray well.[LNB]"However, a new face at the top doesn't change the fact that Sir David still owns over 90% of Rangers shares.[LNB]"Nor does it wipe out debts that meant the club was unable to sign a single player on the back of a double-winning season with guaranteed Champions League football.[LNB]"Many Rangers supporters still want radical change in the running and ownership of the club.[LNB]"The promise made by Sir David two years ago on elected supporters being on the club board should be honoured.[LNB]"Every fan is now looking for a clear positive statement about the future direction of Rangers, particularly how the club's debt will be managed and what financial support will be given to Walter Smith and the team.[LNB]"Finally, the situation where one man has sole control of Rangers cannot continue.[LNB]"The fans are the biggest annual investor in the club and, as Sir David himself acknowledges, 'the lifeblood of Rangers'.[LNB]"This is the perfect opportunity for the club to sit down with supporters and discuss how to widen share ownership and democratise the club, to ensure the phrase 'Rangers family' means something."[LNB][LNB]
