Davidson's US Shrewsbury takeover involves Friedel

What the report says

Former United States goalkeeper Brad Friedel is part of the American group seeking to buy League Two club Shrewsbury Town, according to BBC Sport Football. The consortium is led by Miami-based businessman Scott Davidson, who has already been cleared by the English Football League and the Independent Football Regulator to move ahead after passing the owners’ and directors’ test.

BBC Sport reports that talks are still under way between the prospective buyers and the club, and that the deal would bring an end to Roland Wycherley’s long spell as chairman after three decades in the role. The expected takeover would also see both Davidson and Friedel join the Shrewsbury board if it is completed in the coming weeks.

The article says Davidson, aged 58, built his wealth in commercial real estate and has experience in football through his involvement with Scottish club The Spartans, where he has been a director since 2021 and is a majority shareholder. BBC Sport also notes that he holds a UEFA A coaching licence.

Friedel, who is 55, has been supporting Davidson through the process. He previously played 668 senior matches, including 476 in the Premier League, and later managed New England Revolution in Major League Soccer. The proposed takeover matters because Shrewsbury are described as struggling, and the change in ownership could shape the club’s direction on and off the pitch.