Hamer hits out after Swansea sacking

Steve Hamer has left Swansea City with immediate effect

Swansea City chairman Steve Hamer has left the Swansea board with immediate effect after three years at the helm, the club announced on Friday morning.

Neil McClure, who had been vice-chairman becomes the new chairman of the club.

According to the club's press release, McClure's appointment is linked to the planned flotation of Swansea City AFC on the Alternative Investment Market on the London Stock Exchange.

Hamer spoke forcefully to BBC Wales on his departure, saying: "I certainly didn't jump - I was pushed."

McClure said in a written statement, "I would like to thank Steve for his work over the last three years. It is felt with the planned flotation that the chairman of the public company should also be chairman of the Football Club."

McClure is also Chief Executive of Ninth Floor plc, Swansea City AFC majority shareholders, who have invested £4.5m in the club over the past three years.

I always had my concerns about the flotation and the reasons behind it

Steve Hamer

Hamer's concerns

Hamer revealed his problems with McClure's control and his concerns over the flotation, scheduled for October.

"I always had my concerns about the flotation and the reasons behind it," he said.

He felt the deal was too rushed and, as chairman, he was not prepared to sign the prospectus.

When he refused, McClure told him that his services were no longer required. In addition, all his boardroom privileges were removed.

Hamer is worried that McClure is now chairman of Swansea and the three other members of the board are all his employees.