Wise resigns from CPO board

Dennis Wise last night announced he had resigned as a director of Chelsea Pitch Owners (CPO) just eight months after rejoining the board.

Former Blues captain Wise accepted an offer to help run the fan-led company which owns the freehold of Stamford Bridge in November after the club failed to convince CPO to sell them back the land under the stadium.

Wise’s decision is understood to be due to alleged intrusion into his private life by an opponent of Chelsea’s bid.

Wise said in a statement: “I’ve thought this through long and hard, and I’m sad to inform you I have decided to resign as a director of Chelsea Pitch Owners.

“I came in to help out the company in what was obviously a difficult time.

“However, it’s become clear to me that the role of CPO director has changed a lot since the early days, and perhaps different skill-sets to mine are required.

“I genuinely wish you all the best going forward.”

CPO chairman Steve Frankham said: “I would like to add that the directors are hugely grateful for Dennis’s contribution over the last eight months.

“His enthusiasm and clear thinking advice have been very helpful at key moments.

“The remaining directors will now carefully consider next steps in appointing Dennis’s replacement and further announcements will follow in due course.”