Peterborough United chairman in quit threat if the 2019-20 season is declared null and void

MacAnthony issued his promise during the latest edition of his popular ‘Hard Truth’ podcast today (May 1). He insists he would ask his partners, Dr Jason Neale and Stewart ‘Randy’ Thompson to buy him out if, as some expect, Posh are denied the chance to push for promotion by the continuing coronavirus crisis.

There is a crucial meeting between the EFL and the Government next week when a further delay to the planned resumption of competitive football could be implemented.

Currently Posh are planning to return to training on May 16 with a view to re-starting the League One season in the middle of June. Posh are sixth in League One, but just three points off the automatic promotion places.

“I’m still thinking positively,” MacAnthony stated. “And whatever the EFL eventually decide we will, as a club, abide by as we are a member of that organisation.

“As things stand we are still preparing for a return to training in a couple of weeks. If we are told we can’t play then we will abide by that as well, but we’d need a very good reason.

“If the season is voided or prolonged for an unreasonable amount of time I will ask my partners to buy me out. I’d need a break mentally. I’d take a two-year hiatus at least to see if I can fall back in love with the game.

“I’ve put my life into football for 15 years. I’m not in this for money. I’ve never made any money from football and I never will. I’m in the game because I’m passionate about it and I love it.

“If it’s taken away from me and from the thousands of fans who love the game then I’m done. I couldn’t live with that or abide by it.

“I’m sorry if that upsets people. I’ve never been a white flag waver. I’m not buying into these ‘insurmountable roadblocks’ others are putting up to stop us playing.

“I’m going to fight to the bitter end on this. I’ve felt like a lone wolf at times on this subject and I will continue to fight.

“If other businesses are deemed safe to return on May 7 then football should be treated the same as long as we proceed in a safe and cautious manner.”

MacAnthony took control of Posh in October 2006. He’s overseen three promotions, three seasons in the Chammpionship and the longest run outside the bottom division of the EFL in the club’s history (12 seasons).