03 August 2023 , 09:48
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Tom Brady has admitted he has a "lot to learn" after joining the ownership group at Championship side Birmingham City.
Blues announced on Thursday morning that Brady had become a minority shareholder at St Andrew's and will become chairman of the club's new advisory board. The former New England Patriot announced his retirement from the NFL in February after more than two decades as a player.
This move marks his first steps into English football, something he has conceded he has much to learn about. But the American also insisted that it is "time to go to work" as Blues prepare to kick off their season with a trip to Swansea.
"So here's the deal. I'm officially coming on board at Birmingham City Football Club. And myabe you're asking 'what do you know about English football Tom?' Well let's just say, I've got a lot to learn," Brady said in a video posted on Twitter.
"But I do know a few things about winning. I think they might translate pretty well. I know success starts with the work put in when the world isn't watching. I know a team is nothing without the city that shows up and stands behind it.
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"Most importantly, I know I like being the underdog. The road's been long for Birmingham, but these fans have never stopped believing. We've got a song that says no matter what, you keep right on till the end of the road. I'll be on that road with you. I'll see you at St Andrew's soon. It's time to get to work. Let's go."
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Tom Brady has become a minority shareholder in Birmingham CityBrady's decision to join as co-owner will also see him become chairman of the club's advisory board, set up after a takeover by Tom Wagner earlier this summer. The legendary quarterback has worked with Wagner before.
In his new role, he will alongside the sports science department to advise on health, nutrition, wellness, and recovery systems and programmes. He is also set to advise the board and the management team on global marketing efforts and the identification of new commercial partnership opportunities for the club.
And Wagner is delighted to welcome Brady to the Second City, where he hopes that the former Patriot can make a huge impact. The American cautioned though that it would take time for the benefits to be seen.
“Tom Brady joining the Birmingham City team is a statement of intent. We are setting the bar at world class. Tom is both investing and committing his time and extensive expertise. As Chair of the Advisory Board Tom will have a direct impact on the Club," Wagner said.
"The Men’s, Women’s, and Academy teams are going to benefit from the knowledge. The goal that Tom has committed to own is to make Birmingham City a respected leader in nutrition, health, wellness, and recovery across the world of football.
“A commitment to Blues fans was made on Monday 8 May 2023, to add experts from the world of sport and football to the team, putting in place the building blocks for future success. With Garry Cook as CEO, Hope Powell as Women’s Technical Director and now Tom Brady we are off to a fast start.
"Success does not come overnight. It takes time. But when you have great leaders in place everything becomes possible.”