Macclesfield FC Co-Owner Suspended After Police Arrest
Macclesfield FC has suspended co-owner Robert Smethurst from his duties following his arrest, the National League North club confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday.
The 48-year-old businessman has been „temporarily relieved of his duties” with immediate effect, though the club didn’t disclose specific details about the nature of his arrest or the allegations he faces. Smethurst had been actively involved in the club’s operations since becoming co-owner, helping guide the Silkmen through a turbulent period in recent years.
Club Issues Brief Statement
In a terse announcement posted on the club’s official website, Macclesfield FC acknowledged the situation but offered few details. The statement stressed that the suspension was a temporary measure whilst authorities conduct their investigation.
„The club is aware of the situation involving Robert Smethurst and has taken the decision to temporarily relieve him of his duties,” a spokesperson said. „We won’t be making any further comment at this time as it would be inappropriate to do so while matters remain ongoing.”
Turbulent History for the Silkmen
The news comes as yet another setback for a club that’s faced more than its fair share of troubles. Macclesfield FC was reformed in 2020 after the original club, Macclesfield Town, was wound up in the High Court following years of financial problems and unpaid debts.
That liquidation marked the end of 146 years of history for the original club.
The reformed version started life in the North West Counties League before earning promotion to National League North, where they currently compete. Smethurst’s involvement had been seen as crucial to stabilising the club’s finances and establishing it on firmer footing after the chaos of the previous incarnation.
What Happens Next
It remains unclear how long Smethurst’s suspension will last or who will assume his responsibilities in the interim. The club’s board is expected to meet in the coming days to discuss the situation and determine the best path forward.
For now, it’s business as usual on the pitch. The team is scheduled to play their next league fixture this weekend, and manager Neil Danns told local media that players have been instructed to focus on football matters.
Supporters have expressed concern on social media about the potential impact on the club’s stability. But most are adopting a wait-and-see approach, hoping that whatever emerges from the investigation won’t derail the progress made since the club’s reformation three years ago.
