Waterford say 'business as usual' as owner faces possible prison sentence on Tuesday

Waterford FC have said it is "business as usual" after the club owner Andrew Pilley was convicted of fraud and could face a prison sentence tomorrow.

Pilley, who also owns English League 1 side Fleetwood Town, was found guilty of two counts of running a business with the intention of defrauding creditors, one count of false representation and one count of being concerned with the retention of criminal property.

He was convicted at Preston Crown Court and will be sentenced on Tuesday.

The fraud relates to the mis-selling of energy supply contracts to small businesses and not through football.

Judge Knowles KC has hinted at a prison sentence with the 52-year-old currently remanded in custody.

A Waterford FC statement read: "Following news of a verdict in a court case involving Andy Pilley, the club would like to issue the following update.

"Waterford Football Club would like to reassure supporters the club will continue to operate as normal and there will be no risk to the future of the club.

"The club's senior management team and directors have been planning for a number of months for the event of a verdict of this nature.

"A meeting of the club's management has taken place this this morning and plans are already in operation to ensure its business as usual.

"We’d like to reassure supporters charges are solely brought against Andy Pilley and not Waterford Football Club, Fleetwood Town Football Club or any of the businesses attached to the group."

Waterford added there will be a further update shortly.

The Blues were purchased by Pilley last year, ending a period of uncertainty.

They missed out on promotion last year in a play-off and are currently second in the First Division under a high-profile management team of Keith Long and