Preston North End have announced the controversial appointment of Peter Ridsdale as their new chairman of football.
The former Leeds United chairman takes on the role at Deepdale after Maurice Lindsay announced his decision to step down last week on health grounds.
Although some PNE fans may be against the appointment, Ridsdale does have a vast amount of footballing experience after previously undertaking roles with Barnsley and Cardiff City.
He has most recently spent time working with League Two strugglers Plymouth Argyle and according to new Argyle owner James Brent saved them from extinction.
"I would personally like to thank Peter for his contribution to Argyle as there is little doubt that, without his presence here during the period of administration, it is highly likely that this football club would no longer exist." Claimed Brent.
During Ridsdale's five year tenure at Leeds United, they finished in the top five of the Premier League in each season and also reached the semi-final of the UEFA Cup in 2000 and were Champions League semi-finalists in 2001.
He eventually stepped down with the club buckling under the weight of huge debts, which eventually led to them being relegated from the top flight at the end of the 2003-04 season.
Following a brief period at Barnsley FC where he led a consortium that reportedly rescued the club from administration, Ridsdale joined Cardiff City.
During his five years at Cardiff City he yet again rescued them from almost certain administration.
But the Welsh club also experienced serious financial problems before Ridsdale agreed a deal with Malaysian businessman Datuk Chan Tien Ghee, who took a 49% shareholding in the club.
Ridsdale said of his appointment as PNE chief: “I am delighted and privileged to be joining Preston North End Football Club.
"Preston North End is a football club that has an incredible football heritage, a large and loyal supporter base and a club that frankly ought to be competing to join the Premier League rather than playing in League One."
“I sincerely hope that working with Preston North End’s existing staff and with the continued support of its fan base, I can play a part in ensuring that we return to the Championship as a minimum in the not too distant future.”
You can also follow Jamie on Twitter: @Jamie_Journo
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