Macclesfield chief is ousted amidst arrest

FA Cup heroes Macclesfield FC were plunged into chaos last night after founder and co-owner Rob Smethurst ‘was temporarily relieved of all duties’.

Smethurst was arrested in Wilmslow, Cheshire, on May 19 on suspicion of controlling and coercive behaviour.

The National League North club, who pulled off the biggest upset in FA Cup history by knocking out holders Crystal Palace last term, said: “Macclesfield FC are aware of reports circulating regarding the position of Robert Smethurst within the football club.

“In light of these, the board of directors can confirm that Mr Smethurst has temporarily been relieved of all duties associated with the football club whilst legal guidance is sought.

“With this in mind, it would be improper to divulge any further information at this time.”

Local businessman Smethurst has led the remarkable rise of Macclesfield FC in recent years.

He purchased the assets of Macclesfield Town in October 2020 and established Macclesfield FC, with the club entered into the North West Counties Football League for the 2021–22 season.

The Silkmen have since climbed the pyramid from Step 5 to Step 2, finishing fourth in their first season in National League North.

Smethurst confirmed his arrest to the BBC and said the allegations against him had been “an absolute load of rubbish”.

“I’m absolutely gutted, devastated,” he said. “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.”

Admitting that the reports would be ‘unsettling’, the club added in their statement: “The board of directors would like to assure everyone of their belief that they are wholeheartedly acting within the best interests of the football club and in a bid to safeguard its continued success.”

Cheshire Constabulary said: “On Tuesday, May 19, a 48-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of controlling and coercive behaviour in Wilmslow.

“He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.”

Smethurst stepped down from the position of chairman at the end of September, explaining that he had other business commitments to attend to, but resumed the role in late January.

In the company details section on the club’s website, it states that the club’s owners and directors are Ama Singh, Robert Smethurst, Sarah-Jane Smethurst and Jonathan Bull.

The three biggest shareholders are Singh (ASG Holdings Jersey Ltd), who has 41 per cent, Robert Smethurst and Sarah-Jame Smethurst, who each have a 17.8 per cent stake.