David Stockdale is the new owner of FC Farsley, with former club Farsley Celtic set to be liquidated.
Former Premier League goalkeeper David Stockdale has completed a takeover of non-league side Farsley Celtic, the club has announced.
Stockdale, 40, joined the club as manager in February but could not prevent relegation from the sixth tier National League North against a backdrop of off-field problems.
Farlsey withdrew from the Northern Counties East Football League for the 2025-26 campaign but intend to return to competitive action as FC Farsley, a phoenix club.
In a statement, David and his wife Katie said: "We want FC Farsley to be the beating heart of community sports and activity in Farsley."
Mrs Stockdale will take the role of FC Farsley chair, with the club continuing to play home games at The Citadel, previously known as Throstle Nest.
As part of the takeover, Farsley Celtic will be liquidated "to give football in Farsley the best chance of future success", the Farsley FC statement added.
The club said refurbishment and improvements to the ground's clubhouse and sports hall had begun, with new gates installed at the entrance.
Last season, Farsley played home fixtures more than 70 miles away in Derbyshire due to a delay in the club's pitch being relaid.
Farsley FC said future plans included an artificial 3G pitch, a common feature at non-league grounds allowing more frequent uses of the surface.
The statement continued: "We hope to see all kinds of different sports being played here by people of all ages and abilities.
"We will be an inclusive sports hub, alongside providing wider activities for the whole community."
A spokesperson from FC Farsley Supporters' Club said they were "delighted" with the takeover.
"They have some exciting plans and we hope that under their stewardship the club can achieve some much-needed stability," they said.
"We look forward to the return of men's first team football at the earliest opportunity and fully support the Stockdales' vision to put the club and its facilities at the heart of community sports and other activities in Farsley."
Leeds-born Stockdale made almost 500 professional appearances in a 21-year career.
As well representing Fulham in the top flight, he also played for clubs including Brighton, Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham City.
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Category: General Sports
