Robert Smethurst, a co-owner of Macclesfield FC, has been suspended following his arrest on suspicion of a coercive control offence. The arrest took place in Wilmslow, Cheshire, on 19 May. The allegations against him involve controlling and coercive behaviour.
In response to the situation, the National League North club released a statement confirming that they were "aware of reports circulating" about the incident. They also stated that Smethurst had "temporarily been relieved of all duties associated with the club while legal guidance is sought".
When asked to comment by the BBC, Smethurst confirmed his arrest but dismissed the allegations against him as "an absolute load of rubbish".
Robert Smethurst, a co-owner of Macclesfield FC, said:
"I'm absolutely gutted, devastated. I want my club back. I love the people that have supported me. All I can ask is that they support me through this time.
"I hope the whole of Macclesfield gets behind me and we pull together and put me back into a position where I feel that I actually belong."
Impact on Macclesfield FC
The news comes as an unsettling development for Macclesfield FC. Smethurst bought the club out of insolvency in 2020 and installed former manager Robbie Savage at its helm. However, he has since diluted his shareholding.
Board of directors at Macclesfield released statement:
"Macclesfield FC are aware of reports circulating regarding the position of Robert Smethurst within the football club. In light of these, Mr Smethurst has temporarily been relieved of all duties associated with the club whilst legal guidance is sought.
"With this in mind, it would be improper to divulge any further information at this time. Whereas we can completely and unequivocally understand that these reports will be unsettling, the board of directors would like to assure everyone of their belief that they are wholeheartedly acting within the best interests of the club and in a bid to safeguard its continued success. We would politely ask everyone not to engage in speculation at this time, and further comment will be made as soon as we are able to."
This incident marks an uncertain time for both Robert Smethurst and Macclesfield FC. As legal proceedings unfold and further information becomes available, it remains to be seen how this will impact both parties involved.
For sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike who follow National League North or have vested interests in it through betting activities or otherwise - this development could potentially influence future games or odds related to Macclesfield FC until clarity is achieved. While these events may seem distant from field action for some fans; they serve as reminders that off-field incidents can significantly impact not just teams' performance but also their reputation among fans and stakeholders.
