Blackburn Rovers have just announced that processor manufacturer AMD will be taking over as the official shirt sponsor. AMD is a major international force in todays computer industry - they are also business partners of club sponsor, Time. The Time Group will remain sponsors of the club yet it will be the AMD logo that appears on both the home and away shirts. this coming season.
Robert Stead, European marketing director of AMD, said: "Blackburn Rovers had a fantastic season in 2001-2002 and we are proud that their players and fans will be sporting the AMD name on the famous shirts next season."
Rovers chief exec. John Williams said: "It is always encouraging to see major firms putting their weight behind the club. AMD is an exciting and innovative company and we are delighted to welcome them on board, whilst continuing our excellent relationship with the Time Group."
Speaking on behalf of the Time Group, Colin Middlemiss added: "We have achieved our goals off the pitch while Rovers have been scoring them on it. Sponsoring the club has been a great success for the Time Group and we are proud to continue that relationship. We wish the new shirt partnership of AMD and Rovers the best of luck for the forthcoming season."
The shirts will be, yet again, designed by Kappa and as such, the logo will be appearing on the shirt opposite the Rovers crest. The Italian sportswear giant has its UK headquarters situated at Ewood Park. The new strip, having been developed in Turin, Italy, will feature several design innovations as seen in the Italian World Cup 2002 shirts.
Upon being asked about the new shirts, Simon Johnson, sales director for Kappa GB, said: "The new shirt has the style of the Italian jersey, with unique neckline, overstitch detail and red piping. Our designers have taken into account the input from Rovers' fans and developed a shirt that is not only a functional garment, but will look extremely fashionable for the supporters.
"The sponsorship deal between Kappa and Rovers has coincided with the last two very successful seasons, we look forward to seeing the club collect more honours in the new kit for next season," he went on to say...
Release dates for the shirt will be available shortly. Keep for eyes on RoversMAD for further details...