Hill-Wood pledges continuity despite board reshuffle

Arsenal will maintain their “philosophy” and “heritage”, according to chairman Peter Hill-Wood – despite changes in the boardroom which are set to reignite takeover speculation.

The departure of major shareholder Nina Bracewell-Smith from the company board was announced last night, along with Richard Carr, a director for 27 years.

However, Carr will remain on the board of the Barclays Premier League club while new chief executive Ivan Gazidis will join both boards on January 1.

It is, though, what Lady Bracewell-Smith, whose family have a long association with Arsenal, will now do with her significant holding of just under 16% which is sure to be of concern to Gunners fans.

Hill-Wood maintained: “The philosophy of the club remains the same. Our efforts are directed towards stability and making the club successful.

“Changes of personnel will not alter the directors’ view of how we should proceed in the future. All the directors love the club and are committed to maintaining its heritage.”