Fulham Owner Shahid Khan Asked About Michael Jackson Statue On Day 1

Dec 16, 2011; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars new owner Shahid Khan talks to the media during a press conference at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

When you’re being introduced as a new owner of a sports franchise in one of the biggest leagues in the world, there are certain questions you’d expect. What are your goals for the year? What are your plans for the franchise moving forward? What is the direction you’re taking?

At Fulham, it’s much different.

They asked new owner Shahid Khan about the Michael Jackson Statue.

Yes, Fulham has a statue of Michael Jackson outside it’s stadium, for no reason what so ever. Former owner Mohamed Al Fayed presumably was a big fan and had the statue erected after his death. It’s not to commemorate any performance there, it’s there just cause.

So the press asked Khan what he was going to do, possibly even removing the statue.

“I’ve been an owner less than a day,” he said, searching for a diplomatic response. “We have to preserve and respect history, but we have to move forward. I’ll reflect on it and listen to the fans, then decide.”

Former owner Al Fayed though had a different and more definitive response… if you can believe that.

“Michael Jackson will stay — it’s part of the deal,” the Egyptian said, before adding with Khan in ear-shot: “Are you listening to me about Michael Jackson? You promise now? Otherwise … I will take your moustache off.”

Jackson did watch the team there once though.

If you’re unaware, here it is, via the Daily Mail: