Mark : That is one area I ’ m really proud of , as we have developed a unique offering of engaging with both educational and sporting establishments across the world in bringing economic benefit back to the Wirral .
This season we are partnering with US Colleges , Chinese schools and Indonesian sports groups in bringing many young people to the Wirral to improve their footballing skills , wider education , and creating lifelong relationships which we hope ( that word again ) will bring long lasting benefit to both Tranmere and the Wirral .
The unique offering I mentioned is a Diploma in Professional Football Studies which is delivered in conjunction with Liverpool University ' s prestigious management school . The course is delivered just in the classroom but embedded at the heart of a professional football club , which we recognise is a context which brings the course ' s academic aspects to life .
Martyn : I know that you have a brilliant working relationship with the Council , and they are supporting a fascinating feasibility study which includes a possible new stadium ?
Mark : That ’ s right , as part of bringing one of the largest economic regeneration projects to the Wirral in many years , and the possibility of many new jobs , we and the Council have commissioned a feasibility study into the possibility of Sport City in the Bidston Dock area . This would be much more than a new stadium and could if deemed worthy , bring a generational impact to our community .
It is clearly in its earliest phase , and I would urge all Tranmere fans to pause any concerns they may have that our dearly beloved Prenton Park is at an end . This is merely a feasibility study , and patience is needed as we assess which is the better direction for the long term direction of the club .
I , like any fan , want the club to maximise its ambition , and this can only be achieved with a solid economic foundation . I do not want this club to be yet another example of financial mismanagement , and so we shall see the results of the feasibility study in the new year and then properly consult with all stakeholders .
Martyn : As a small step in that direction , I of course know , that the club and Tranmere Rovers Trust have been working towards the creation of a new fan park . Where is that up to ?
Mark : We are very hopeful ( again , that word ) that this will start to be built very soon and with a fair wind should be ready in the new year . It is a very exciting project , and German Kraft Beer have been very imaginative partners to work with . There may be a small amount of disruption on match days , but at least that will enable our fans to see the progress that will be being made over the next few months .
Martyn : We , of course have the World Cup this year , at a very unusual time of year . As former CEO of the Football Association , and someone who helped put some solid structures in place , including the new Wembley Stadium , what are your thoughts and indeed , ahem , hopes for this World Cup ?
Mark : Well , there are indeed many unusual aspects to this World Cup , but without being controversial for Wirral Life readers , I ’ ll focus on the hopes for our two home teams .
I think the timing of the competition is advantageous for both England and Wales . Previously , British teams , not having had a mid season break , have generally arrived physically and mentally drained after a hard season . This time they will be a lot fresher . Sven-Göran Eriksson , my manager when I was at the FA , always complained about this !
Also , over the last 5 years we have seen the benefit of The FA ' s coaching changes in 2007 . The success of the England development teams since 2017 is now being seen in the relative success of the full England team under Gareth Southgate . I think other countries will see them as a real contender - semi-finalists four years ago , and nearly European Champions two years ago - and I think they have a good chance this year .
The heat will clearly be a major factor but I see them reaching the semi-finals at least , with Wales also being a real dark horse in the tournament . It will be good to follow their progress and if Gareth Bale performs at his best , then even England who they play in the group stages on 29th November could be in for a shock .
Martyn : Many thanks for all that diverse insight into Tranmere Rovers , and with the season ’ s first game on 30th July , what are your final thoughts ?
Mark : I love the atmosphere of our early games , and the hope and excitement that our fans generate . We have a great initiative with our new Community Tickets Programme (" Nate ' s Tickets ") being launched which helps our fans and young people who cannot normally afford to attend and see live football , and I expect a good start to our new season , and I hope to see as many of our Wirral Life readers as possible . wirrallife . com 13