[Salopbaggie]

But:     Didn't I read about a year ago that the Chinese Government had barred any further investment from its citzens (I think in overseas Football).

I definitely read that, but can't remember if it was a reputable source, though it would explain a lot.
Anyone???

I have seen it mentioned twice once when it was relating to why Lai could not pay back the money he owes the club, the other in an article related to why he could not personally spend any money on the club. Certainly has not stopped other Chinese owners of English clubs.

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Once upon a time it was said that a buyer had insisted Big sam was put in place as part of a takeover agreement - maybe this was a cunning ploy to get the valuation reduced - Big Sam getting a bigger bonus for dropping our value than keeping us up?

Stairs, surely you are not suggesting Big Sam is capable of dodge dealings, joking apart though and I am not suggesting that here, but more devious things have been done in the world of big finance.