Nathan Tinkler pays Newcastle Jets' debts, names new Chief Executive

Threatened with the Football Federation Australia (FFA) reclaiming the Newcastle Jets’ A-League licence, owner Nathan Tinkler has announced he has paid off clubs' outstanding debts and claimed he is now ready to revitalise the struggling A-League club.

The mining magnate, who has been trying to sell the club since August, said in a statement that he has made payments of approximately $500,000 to a variety of creditors, partners and government organisations.

Tinkler's announcement follows the appointment of new club Chief Executive Mitchell Murphy, who will start work on 16th February.

Tinkler explained "(this)  provides a fresh start for the Newcastle Jets.

"We're introducing new drive and people into the organisation and will be setting new goals over the coming months.

"I hope my actions today prove to people my commitment to the Newcastle Jets, the Hunter region, and the A-League."

Murphy, a former Chief Executive of Football Federation Victoria (FFV), was appointed on Friday to replace Robbie Middleby, who resigned from his position in January.

Middleby along with former club Chairman Ray Baartz apparently quit in frustration at being unable to make day-to-day decisions at Newcastle.

Murphy now faces some big immediate issues with the Jets floundering on the field and with five senior players and three members of the coaching staff having recently had their contracts terminated.

Tinkler said Murphy, also a former media executive, had delivered a significant turnaround of financial performance implemented for the FFV and he was delighted to secure his services.

Tinkler stated "Mitchell has immense corporate experience, proven business acumen and brings a first-rate network of high profile contacts to the table.

"Mitchell will work tirelessly to interact with the Hunter community and also be a fine ambassador for our club in terms of working closely with sponsors and other key stakeholders."

Murphy praised the football culture in the Hunter region, adding “the superb crowds at the recent AFC Asian Cup games played in Newcastle reflects the region's affection for the world game.

"It's imperative our club has a strategic mindset and builds a sustainable winning culture both on and off the field."

With AAP

9th January 2015 - NEWCASTLE JETS CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE RESIGN

23rd August 2014 - NATHAN TINKLER TO QUIT AUSTRALIAN SPORT AS INTENTION TO SELL NEWCASTLE JETS CONFIRMED