Morecambe chairman: China talks progressing well

The Shrimps’ partnership with Shanghai Clever was launched with a charity tournament at the Globe Arena back in September.

There have been no formal announcements since then but Mr McGuigan insists the relationship with a club fronted by former Crystal Palace man Fan Zhiyi is developing with the hope that something concrete will be in place next season.

Speaking at a fans’ forum, the chairman said: “I said it was going to be a collaboration in terms of community, training and other things and that’s still the case.

“It does take a little bit of time to get the trust of these people.

“It’s progressing well and I’m delighted with where we are at the moment.

“I’m sure for next season there’ll be something coming through.”

Mr McGuigan also confirmed at the question and answer session on Thursday night that talks are ongoing to try and find a new stadium sponsor for next season.

Globe Management Services, whose five-year naming rights deal was due to end in the summer, went into administration last August.