FAO Sir David Murray, Alastair Johnston and Martin Bain

[Frankie 8,150]

First of all, congratulations on helping deliver a 53rd title to our club. To do so - albeit aided by an impressive manager, committed players and loyal support - amongst difficult financial circumstances is worthy of praise; no matter the problems of the past. I'm also delighted to see a more robust defence of our club on a range of recent issues - long before time.

 

However, the hard work is just started and laurel resting is not the order of the day! If we're to build on this season's title success and improve further I sincerely hope work is ongoing in that respect. Please forgive the empirical analysis below but every fan will expect action as we renew our season tickets before next week's deadline.

 

First of all - the manager must be secured on a new contract immediately - with the promise that our out-of-contract players will be offered genuine deals in line with their value to the club. With the CL Group Stage income secured for next season, there is no excuse and no reason why this cannot be done. It may prove difficult to persuade one or two to stay but if they are unaffordable or we can't promise them regular first team football, say so now and act quickly to replace them. There are more than enough players available elsewhere who are out of contract and who will be affordable and persuaded to sign for a club again competing at the highest level.

 

Similarly, if further finance is required to improve the team and if key players don't want to be part of our future - sell them now and organise their replacements effectively. Madjid Bougherra has been a fine player in his time here but this season has shown he is not indispensable. His intentions must be known by now - waiting until August to move him (and/or others in the same position) on and fund his replacement is risky. The quicker we turnover the squad, the quicker they gel and the less chance of problems. Ask Tony Mowbray.

 

As well as these essential operations with regard to our on-the-field activities, the ongoing ownership saga and bank involvement is one that worries many fans. Despite your comments at December's AGM and quotes on similar issues since, doubt and cynicism remains. What is the financial agreement with the bank? How difficult is our relationship with MIH? Who are the preferred bidders and what do you think of their plans? Be honest with us and you'll find our loyalty will not waver but increase.

 

To that end, fan/club relations must improve. We love the club and you thank us for our commitment. If that praise is genuine, bring us into the fold, use our opinions wisely and foster the skills we can bring to the table. The Rangers family is a vital component of the challenges ahead - instead of estrangement, let's get together more and bring back the kind of trust and respect that will make our relationship more fruitful than ever.

 

Obviously, no-one is suggesting the above is simple and can be done over a couple of weeks. However, the issues mentioned have been clear for a number of months now and the same concerns remain. In that respect, we shouldn't be hoping you're acting competently on our behalf but expecting it. Therefore, in the same way we want to see any potential owner outline their plans for the club, it is also time for you to apply yours and show our investment for next season will not be a wasteful one.

 

Can you deliver?

Edited April 28, 2010 by Frankie