Long term, I don't think this 49% thing is a problem IF the working relationship between Hicks and DIC is OK and they have suitable agreements in place for any future share sales. If DIC are prepared to let Hicks deal with the stadium build (which many of us think is the one thing he seems to have got right) and in return Hicks lets DIC have a big say in the running of the club day to day then we'll be in a much better position than we are now where Hicks seems to be making all the decisions.
Will Hicks cede power to DIC in the running of the club? Well, given that he seems in the main to have let Rafa get his top targets when it would have been better for his finances to refuse and has apparently been persuaded by Moores and Parry to take debt off the club (even if in name only) shows he's not averse to taking advice where the business of the club is concerned then there's no reason to assume he won't if he trusts DIC to be competent. Same with DIC if they trust Hicks to build the stadium without fucking it up. Again, one thing we've learned is Hicks tends to get what he wants, so in the business of the stadium build that should work in our favour for a change. Not an ideal situation but not unworkable.
For me it all boils down to whatever would be in any partnership agreement. Didn't Mandy use the phrase "subject to renegotiation of the partnership agreement" when talking about the potential deal? If this includes the right of DIC to buy back the 1% at the same price Hicks paid plus first refusal on his 50% share should he decide to sell up once the stadium is built then they would still be in a position of strength. And if DIC are seen to be taking control of club business day-to-day then you'd expect the protests would die down somewhat which has to be good for both Hicks and the club itself.
Sure, we all want Hicks out, with no influence on the future of the club, but that's not realistic if he doesn't want to go. The best we can hope for is he is reigned in until he decides to cash in, so if this deal goes through then there's no reason why can't still have a very bright future. Certainly one a million times better than now.
