As the club’s relationship with the supporters grows more strained, some senior executives at Blackburn Rovers, including former Aston Villa striker Rudy Gestede, have been’respectfully urged’ to skip the team’s final Championship games.
Last summer, Gestede returned to Ewood Park for the first time since he departed for Villa in the summer of 2015 to take over as the club’s head of football operations. The former forward retired in 2023. He was most renowned for scoring the game-winning goal against Birmingham City in an EFL Cup match the year the Lions were relegated while he was at Villa Park.
The Benin international presided over the club’s transfer window last summer and Rovers, under John Eustace, continued to compete and maintain their place towards the top of the Championship table under the former Blues boss prior to his departure for Derby County in February.
Rovers replaced Eustace with former West Brom boss Valerien Ismael, but the club have only won four of their last 18 games and Ismael is yet to taste victory in his first four matches in charge. The form, combined with the lack of communication from the club, has prompted various fan groups to unite.
They released an open letter to the club, citing that the presence on matchdays of Gestede, CEO Steve Waggott and COO Suhail Pasha is becoming an off-field distraction which is no longer welcome. They are fed up with the lack of leadership and want the focus to remain on the pitch.
In response, the club released a statement themselves confirming that the executives at the top of the club, Gestede included, will continue to be at games for the remainder of this Championship season.
“Blackburn Rovers acknowledge the statement issued this morning by members of the fanbase and welcome their collective call for unity during the closing stages of the campaign,” the statement read.
“As we enter the final eight Championship fixtures of the season, our focus must remain on supporting the team in what could be a decisive period for the club.
“With the prize of a place in the play-offs and a chance for promotion to the Premier League at stake, unity and a positive atmosphere at matches will be crucial in helping the players and coaching staff achieve success on the pitch. We also want to reaffirm our commitment to open discussions with supporters.
“Rovers’ CEO, Steve Waggott, along with other senior executives, have held regular meetings with individual supporters and fan groups throughout the season to share updates on club matters and engage in meaningful two-way dialogue.
“These sessions have provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, address any concerns and consider fan perspectives as part of the club’s ongoing decision-making process.
We understand the importance of open communication and will continue to engage with fans as we work towards the long-term success and stability of the club. The passion and commitment of our supporters is what makes this club so special.
“While differences of opinion exist, our shared goal is clear – to drive the club forward together. Now, more than ever, we urge everyone to get behind the team and show your support for this final push.
“As part of their professional duties and commitments to the club, Blackburn Rovers’ senior leadership group will continue to attend games – representing the club and showing support to the players and coaching staff for the remainder of the season.”
