Chesterfield FC chief executive on finances, new scout and Q&A sessions with fans

It is a worrying time for all clubs with supporters not allowed inside stadiums and the only matchday income coming from live streaming of games.

The Chesterfield FC Community Trust took over the Spireites in August but have not been able to welcome fans to the Technique Stadium because of the Covid-19 restrictions.

“Supporters are understandably concerned about the club’s financial position at a time when revenue has been affected by matters beyond our control as a result of the pandemic,” Croot said. “We can assure everyone that financial plans and projections are in place to ensure the security of the club. We are in a stronger position than many clubs in our division and we are working hard to develop various income streams.”

In other news, Croot said he is ‘delighted’ to bring in former Town player Paul Lemon as the club’s new chief scout.

Lemon played for the Blues in the early 1990s and will be tasked with providing manager John Pemberton three or four recruitment options for each position.

“A new player recruitment system is being put in place – which was one of the community trust’s key objectives when taking over the club – and Paul will play an important role in this,” Croot said. “Paul’s passion for the role shines through and his commitment to the club is unquestioned. He will be working to a remit regarding player recruitment, in consultation with John Pemberton and the board.”

Meanwhile, it is hoped more Q&A sessions can be organised when the latest coronavirus restrictions are relaxed. Events with the community trust and Pemberton were held in the summer.

Croot added: “We held a number of Q&A sessions at the stadium before the start of the season and the plan was to hold another one soon. Unfortunately, however, the new restrictions in place put paid to those plans. We are keen to engage in regular dialogue with supporters and we will be looking to hold further Q&A sessions once everything is ‘back to normal’.