Supporters' group makes plea to Kroenke

(AP)

The Arsenal Independent Supporters' Association (AISA) has issued a statement to the club's majority shareholder Stan Kroenke, appealing to the American businessman to "take advantage of his opportunity to win over fans".

Last week Kroenke increased his stake to 62.89 per cent as well as making a mandatory offer for the remaining shares. The Arsenal Supporters' Trust has already said its minority shareholders will not sell as they seek to retain a voice. AISA is calling for Kroenke to promise that no debt arising from the purchase of shares will be transferred to the club.

Administration talk 'nonsense' says Gibson

Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson has dismissed rumours that the club are on the brink of going into administration as "nonsense".

The Teessiders will look to cut their wage bill as they prepare for a third successive campaign outside the top flight.

However, Gibson insists there is no truth in the suggestion that the club are in financial difficulties. He said: "I don't know where these stories come from. It's all nonsense.

Gibson did admit that expenditure on wages would be addressed in the close season to reduce it to a more realistic level. "We have a huge wage bill and that's something we are dealing with," he said. "It's about getting value for money from your wage bill. We are 18th in the Championship and that's why this situation can't continue."

Sidwell signs for three more years at Cottage

Steve Sidwell has signed a contract extension with Fulham that will keep him at Craven Cottage until 2014. He joined from Aston Villa on a six-month deal in January, with an agreement that it could be extended by a further three seasons.

Sidwell (above), 28, has impressed in eight league and cup appearances for Mark Hughes' side and the club have now announced he has signed the extended agreement. "I'm delighted to be tied down for another three years," Sidwell said. "The main objective was to come here in January and prove myself. Now that's been done I'm not going to sit on my laurels, I want to kick on."