Peterborough United chairman delivers his annual positive prediction, season ticket update and a message for the fans
Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony remains bullish about his side’s chances of success in League One next season, despite the disappointment of two 18th place finishes in a row.
Self-confident MacAnthony points to historic success in the third tier during his 20-year reign at London Road as one reason for his optimism. What he believes is a top-class management team of Luke Williams and Ryan Harley is another reason.
The chairman has a big reputation for making positive predictions. He has overseen three promotions from League One in his time at the club, usually against the odds.
MacAnthony said, in an interview with the Posh media team: “I’m 50 now and I’m not going to change who I am. This is the way I’m built. Of course I’m not happy with two 18th placed finishes, but what happened last year does not dictate what happens this year.
"In this division our aim is always to try and be a force in League One. Our aspirations are always the same and I am confident we will have a good season. I believe what I’m saying as we’ve done it before countless times. It’s always a challenge, but we can’t shy away from it because the likes of Leicester are back in the league.
"Things will have to go your way. You need to avoid injuries, you need a good set of lads and a top management team. We will need a good start for sure, but the squad is getting a proper pre-season and they will be ready.”
MacAnthony has revealed Posh have lost about 200 season ticket holders from last season. For the first time he club declined to tell the PT the specific number of sales this summer, but last season around 4,500 season tickets were sold.
"We have only lost about 200 season ticket holders,” MacAnthony added. “But we’ve been smashing shirt sales and, after a lull when the new crest was introduced, the shop sales have picked up as well.
"All I would say to the fans is come and support your club and a fantastic management team. I have a feeling our product is going to be very good. I want all the talk this season to be about a team playing great football and scoring great goals.
"A lot of the players who got us into eighth place last season are still here so I fancy we will do we very well this season, including enjoying some good cup runs.
"Sit back and try to enjoy it. We want to build the crowds. Ignore the headlines about matchday prices. If you are coming to game get a ticket in advance as there are attractive prices to be had.”
The last time Leicester City were in League One they won the title in the 2008-09 season. Posh finished second to win automatic promotion.