Tamworth Football Club has entered a new chapter following the recent takeover by Oklahoma-based entrepreneur Abdullah Ashraf, who outlined ambitious plans to secure promotion to the English Football League (EFL). Ashraf, who previously held a minority stake in Truro City, completed the acquisition of the National League side earlier this week after receiving the necessary approvals from the Football Association, EFL, and Football Regulator.

As chairman, Ashraf emphasized his commitment to advancing the club’s status, stating that reaching the EFL remains the primary objective. “Those three letters are magical in our mind,” he said, highlighting the club’s desire to join the professional ranks of English football. To achieve this, the new owner intends to purchase the Lamb Ground from Tamworth Council, moving away from the current part-time hybrid structure that is common in the division.

Ashraf underscored the importance of transitioning the team to full-time professional status, a move he believes is essential for long-term success. “This isn’t something that will happen immediately,” he explained, noting a timeline of approximately 12 months to initiate the transition, with a full professional setup expected within two years. The plan involves close collaboration with CEO Scott Rickards and manager Andy Peaks to implement these changes.

Beyond the shift to full-time football, Ashraf also highlighted the necessity of improving facilities for players and supporters alike. Plans include the development of a dedicated training facility and significant upgrades to the Lamb Ground to enhance the matchday experience. “We want people to come to the Lamb and say ‘Wow, what an amazing ground this is,’” he said, stressing the importance of the stadium as a community hub.

Scott Rickards, a former Tamworth striker and lifelong fan of the club, has been promoted to chief executive. Rickards expressed enthusiasm about the new ownership’s vision. “The new owners are very driven people and their vision and plans are really exciting, not only for me but also for the fans,” he said. He praised Ashraf and director Nathan Walter for their proactive approach and shared passion for elevating the club’s fortunes.

Rickards described the current period as a “new dawn” for Tamworth, voicing optimism about the future despite acknowledging the challenges ahead. Both Ashraf and Rickards conveyed a unified goal of building a sustainable, successful club capable of competing at higher levels of English football.

With these strategic initiatives underway, Tamworth aims to establish itself as a fully professional outfit capable of competing for promotion to the English Football League, signaling a bold new era for the club and its supporters.