Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony has confirmed that the club will spend on new signings during the current transfer window, following the sale of winger Kyrell Lisbie to Championship side Millwall for a reported £3 million.
The departure of Lisbie, who joined from National League side Braintree just 12 months ago, adds to the exits of key players Archie Collins, Tom Lees, and Jimmy-Jay Morgan.
MacAnthony addressed fans on social media on July 28 to clarify the club's financial position and transfer strategy ahead of the competitive season kickoff on August 8.
"Trust me, I'm working hard on all fronts to get it spot on in all positions we need filling squad-wise," said MacAnthony.
The chairman noted that structural debt at London Road has been reduced significantly over the past two years.
"Debt is under £12 million now from £18 million as we have been chipping away at it over last couple seasons, and yes we will, as always, be spending this window like previous ones, before any fans pop up screaming about us selling players," he added.
Manager Praises Commercial Success
Manager Luke Williams praised the executive team following a 2-1 friendly victory against York City on July 28, highlighting the financial return generated on Lisbie.
"We were sad to see Kyrell go, but we are delighted for him," said Williams.
He emphasized that the transfer represented a massive commercial success for the club.
"And it's clear the move has left the club in a better financial position.
In fact if you were in business and you made this sort of investment and then return in just 12 months you'd probably be called Bill Gates!
That's the genius of Darragh and Barry over the last 20 years or so," Williams added.
The manager highlighted ongoing investments made by the chairman to support the squad both on and off the pitch.
"The chairman has spoilt the players and staff really.
He took us to Spain for a fantastic week and he's improved the training ground for us," said Williams.
Williams added that practical limits on matchday attendance require prudent financial management from ownership.
"He's also protecting the club.
We love our fans and to us they are the best in the world, but we don't get 100,000 of them through the gate," he said.
Recruitment Continues Despite Player Exits
Speaking earlier following a 1-0 pre-season defeat at Boston United on July 25, Williams maintained that recruitment efforts remain active.
"I am sure quality players will arrive, but we also have a lot of players already here who we are really excited about," said Williams.
The manager noted that staff members across the club are continually scouting potential additions to strengthen the roster.
"Darragh MacAnthony and Barry Fry are working non-stop as are all of the lads who go out watching games for us.
It's relentless, constant work from everyone and we will be very optimistic when we get what will be our best team on the pitch," he said.
Reflecting on the match against Boston United, Williams identified areas requiring tactical improvement.
"It was tough for us at Boston.
We created enough openings to win two games, but we fluffed our lines with the last ball and the finish and that let them back into the game and we suffered as a result," he said.
He noted that wide players reached promising positions despite the final execution falling short.
"But our wide players got in great positions out wide and when in the penalty area, and we can help them make better deliveries in the future," Williams added.
Despite the result, the manager viewed the outing as a necessary step in match fitness and preparation.
"It was still a good workout for us and a big part in our preparation for the season," he said.
Williams concluded by praising new additions including midfielder Harrison Jones, left-back Evan Weir, and goalkeeper Collin Andeng Ndi, who have arrived alongside Tom O'Connor and Owura Edwards this summer.
"I liked what I saw from Harrison Jones who is an old school, box-to-box midfielder who clearly doesn't mind tackling.
He's made a good impression on us already.
We could also see Evan Weir's quality and the assertive qualities of Collin Andeng Ndi in goal," said Williams.
Peterborough United concludes its pre-season schedule at home against Championship side West Bromwich Albion on August 1 at 3 p.
m.
