Amanda Staveley has issued her awaited statement in regards to her failed attempts to acquire the 25.1% of the Gold family shares.

As we well know, these were ultimately purchased by the existing shareholders, who all exercised their rights to procure the shares in the pre-emptive shareholder rights that are in place.

Staveley’s statement has been met with much frustration and anger, with many feeling that she, her husband and consortium are now walking away from east London. But is that the case?

Let’s look at the statement and break it down…

“We are obviously disappointed not to have been successful in our bid to acquire the 25% shareholding in West Ham United.

“For transparency our original offer was for both David Sullivan’s 38.8% stake and Vanessa God’s 25.1% stake in the club.

“There was always the potential that they other shareholders would take up their rights under the shareholders agreement which is what they have elected to do.”

Well, this is something we already knew and expected from Staveley. She is, of course, disappointed that the deal with Gold didn’t materialise – so nothing new there.

“From the outset we and our global investment partners approached this opportunity with enormous respect for West Ham, its history, identity and most importantly loyal and committed supporters.

“We saw real potential to make a positive difference, rejuvenate the club and help West Ham compete consistently at the highest level of English football.

“Mehrdad () and I along with our partners retain the greatest respect for the West Ham community who supported us both in the stands and online in recent weeks.”

This is a clear message to West Ham fans to show that not only they want in, but have big plans for the club. This also puts pressure on Kretinksky & co – who have so far blocked this ambition to enter our club thus far.

“We will continue to follow this process closely. Our ambitions for the club remain and we would be open to the opportunity to work constructively with the existing shareholders in the future subject to us not taking up other opportunities that have been presented to our consortium in the week.”

This is the big one.

Not only does it indicate they are still keen – it is also a big message to David Sullivan & others who are looking to cash in and make big money.

The time is now. If you don’t come to the table, then we are prepared to walk.

This is not over. Watch this space.