The Birch Edition: Alan Birchenall speaks to Leicester City vice-chairman Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddhanaprabha
The Thai owners have pumped many millions into Leicester City since taking control in the bid for the Premier League. The Srivaddhanaprabha family took control more than two-and-a-half years ago and last season alone pumped £36million into the club.
The Birch spoke to the club's vice-chairman Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddhanaprabha about the family's plans, hopes and dreams for City.
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PROUD: City vice-chairman Aiyawatt 'Top' Srivaddhanaprabha and his father, Vichai, who he says was his biggest influence
Why Leicester City?
Because the time was right and when they introduced me and my dad to Milan Mandaric at the stadium my dad asked me if I remembered the first English game he took me to see, which was the League Cup final between Leicester and Middlesbrough. Something connected with me inside.
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Has owning the club lived up to expectations?
Absolutely.
What are your plans for the club?
I have said all along that we plan to stay here for a long time. If we are not promoted to the Premier League we will keep trying everything we can to get into the Premier League. We build everything for the fans and make the club for everyone to enjoy and have fun. We are totally committed to the club.
When we get into the Premier League, is the city going to see the biggest party it has ever seen?
Of course, we are going to fill the stadium for that party one day. And the first round is on me!
Was you educated in England?
No, in Thailand.
What other sports do you play?
I play anything and everything. Polo, football, basketball, swimming; I play everything except rugby.
If you go out for dinner, what do you prefer to eat?
Besides Thai food, I like Italian and Japanese.
City or Tigers?
City of course.
Beach or skiing?
I love a nice beach.
Finest moment?
Playing polo with Prince William and Prince Harry.
Who or what is your greatest love?
My family is my greatest love, my mum and dad.
Favourite music and artist?
Maroon 5
If you are watching television, do you watch a soap or Question Time?
I would watch a soap, but I don't really watch either.
What was the first record you bought?
Linkin Park, I think.
Who inspired you when you were starting out?
My dad.
Which team, except for City, athlete or musician would you pay to see?
A Lady Ga Ga concert.
Favourite album?
Maroon 5 again.
What was the last film you saw?
Skyfall
Do any books interest you?
Bring Back The Birch!
English breakfast or cereal and fruit?
Cereal and fruit
If you could change one thing in sport what would it be?
Technology being used to help officials in football, because I remember Frank Lampard's goal against Germany in the World Cup which was over the line but wasn't given.
What makes you laugh?
My friends. I enjoy good company and when we score.
What makes you angry?
When we play badly.
Reporting by Rob Tanner
• This article was written as part of "The Birch Edition". Leicester City legend Alan Birchenall was Mercury editor for the day and made all the big decisions for the next day's paper.
5 Comments
by DorsetFox
Sunday, March 24 2013, 8:08PM
“squirrill
you really let yourself down”
by TheGeofflane
Saturday, March 23 2013, 1:19PM
“Keep moaning dobbo! Sorry squiffy. We think even less of you every post.”
by squirril33
Friday, March 22 2013, 4:44PM
“Ah bloody iPad ill Re write
Re the Top question and answer. The answer to what makes him most angry is City playing badly. If that's the case Top get rid of the main reason for it. Nigel Pearson.”
by FoxFreak
Friday, March 22 2013, 4:23PM
“"Was you educated in England?"
Good job he wasn't if that's the standard of English of someone who was!”
by squirril33
Friday, March 22 2013, 7:51AM
“Re the what makes you angry question. he answer means he must have been angry permanently lately. If he reads this please get rid of the clown at the helm and lets move on”