Former FA Chief Mark Palios Agrees Takeover of Tranmere Rovers

Mark Palios, the former Football Association (FA) Chief Executive, has become the new owner of English League Two Tranmere Rovers.

Along with his wife Nicola Palios, the former footballer has reached an agreement with current owner Peter Johnson.

Mark, who made over 280 appearances for the club in two spells at Prenton Park, will become Executive Chairman of the club with Nicola as Vice-Chairman whilst Peter Johnson will remain a shareholder, director and become the Club’s Honorary President.

Peter Johnson, who took control of the club in 1987 after Tranmere Rovers had been placed into administration, said, “I have been looking for a safe pair of hands to ensure the Club’s future.

“In Mark and Nicola I have found that. As a local lad who played for the club, and a former Chief Executive of The FA with a successful commercial track record, Mark is uniquely placed to help lead Tranmere to a bright future.

“Between them, they have the passion and the experience to take the Club forward and I am looking forward to working on the Board with them. Finding this mix of football and business skills is highly unusual.”

Mark Palios added, “We are both aware of what a privilege it is to have the opportunity to become involved with this Club, but it is important that we pay tribute to the support that Peter Johnson has given over many years.

“All Tranmere fans are well aware of his massive contribution to the Club, a support that is ongoing, and in order to mark his dedication and support we will be consulting with our fans on the best way to do that.

“There is a big job to be done to get the Club back in the higher divisions and get the facilities back up to scratch. In the coming weeks and months we will share with you our plans on how we intend to make it happen.

“We have no illusions about the difficult environment in which lower league clubs operate but we have exciting ideas to ensure Tranmere thrives in the future as a successful and vibrant community club which is capable of sustaining itself without being reliant on a benefactor.

“My playing days for the club were fantastic, my manager was the legendary and inspiring figure John King and I hope that we can bring some of his spirit, determination and personality back into the Club.”

Tranmere’s CEO Jeremy Butler believes having Mark and Nicola’s experience in sport, commerce and law at the top of the organisation is crucial if Tranmere Rovers are to thrive.

He said, “Mark and Nicola have the knowledge and contacts required to help Tranmere Rovers take the next step towards becoming a self-sustaining football club.

“Their business experience will strengthen the Board, and their ideas for the Club are sensible and exciting. I am looking forward to working with them.”