Ex-Premier League goalkeeper David Stockdale completes deal to launch FC Farsley

By Harry Whitfield

Former Premier League goalkeeper David Stockdale has formally completed a deal to launch FC Farsley.

The former Brighton, Fulham and Sheffield Wednesday stopper, who has managed the team since February, has taken ownership alongside his wife, Katie, who will serve as chair of the newly-formed club.

Stockdale was unable to stop Farsley Celtic finishing bottom of National League North last season, amidst a raft of off-the-field problems.

The club were initially demoted three divisions to the Northern Counties East League at Step 5 after failing to secure a valid licence for the National League and the Northern Premier League.

At last!

Ultimately, ahead of the current campaign, the men’s first team withdrew from the Non-League pyramid altogether, leaving no immediate prospect of assembling a squad or operating from a settled home base.

However, a takeover that has been in the works since the summer has now been completed, involving the purchase of FC 2010 Holdings Ltd and bringing an end to the company that previously operated Farsley Celtic.

Liquidators are expected to be appointed in due course, with the move designed to give football in Farsley the best possible chance of long-term sustainability.

In a joint statement, the Stockdales said: “At last! We are delighted to formally take the reins at Farsley.

“The club and its facilities have real potential, and we are honoured to be the owners of a club that has been dear to the hearts of people for many generations.”

COMPLETE: David Stockdale completes takeover of newly found FC Farsley PICTURE: Alamy

Heavy heart

The Stockdales believe the takeover represents a fresh start for community sport in Farsley.

They added: “With a heavy heart, Farsley Celtic will have to be liquidated to give football in Farsley the best chance of future success.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all volunteers, fans and staff who helped to keep Farsley Celtic going for as long as it has.

“FC Farsley Sports Club already runs women’s and deaf teams, as well as a development section that caters for more than 300 youngsters each week.”

Work has begun on refurbishing the clubhouse and sports hall, with new entrance gates installed, and the club will now operate as the site’s facilities provider.

Future ambitions include the installation of a 3G pitch, while the Stockdales intend to apply to the league to enter a men’s first team for 2026–27.

READ MORE: David Stockdale steps up! Farsley Celtic boss agrees takeover deal to secure club’s future