1^st October 1997

Manchester Evening News

Uri Geller: I may buy Oldham Athletic

WORLD-FAMOUS spoonbender Uri Geller is focussing his mind — and money — on Oldham Athletic Football Club.

Israeli-born Geller, who preaches about the power of the mind, is thinking of taking over a second or third division club.

And he has admitted he is considering putting Oldham on his shortlist.

He said: "I am keen to delve further into the Oldham proposition."

"I have been thinking of buying a football club for some time. I looked at first division clubs but they are probably out of my reach."

Geller has contacts trying to find out which clubs are on the market.

Athletic chairman Ian Stott said: "I had talks with Uri Geller Last night and he is interested in getting more involved in a football club. Oldham are one of five or six clubs he is interested in and nothing will happen now for at least a month.''

Major shareholder J W Lees Brewery said it would consider any offer.

Mr Stott added: "We would listen to anybody thinking seriously of becoming involved."

J W Lees chairman Richard Lees-Jones said: "Any offer made in writing would be discussed by the board."