Ex-football chief delivers striking lecture

The former vice-chairman of Arsenal Football Club and the Football Association challenged and motivated Economics and Business Studies 6th form students in a talk at Marling School last Friday (5th). David Dein spent 24 years at Arsenal, and in that time he appointed Arsene Wenger, who went on to be one of England’s most successful football managers; oversaw the introduction of one of the first all-seater stadiums following the Hillsborough disaster; and promoted and supported women’s professional football. He was instrumental in setting up the Premier League in 1992, which increased the profile and profits of the top clubs and turned English football into a high-performing business.

Since leaving football, David has been touring as part of the ‘Speakers for Schools’ programme, providing students with his views on motivation and inspiration based on his experience in football. Today he talked about the financial aspects of running football clubs including foreign-ownership, funding changes and levels of debt within the game.

Steve Farr, Head of Sixth Form, said: “Even though I’m an Everton supporter, I was thrilled to welcome David to speak to our students. He brought a very personal insight into the business workings of football and an inspirational reminder to all students to work hard, be resilient and strive for their dreams, no matter how difficult they may seem.”