Clarets Chairman Frank Teasdale has asked tycoon bidder Ray Ingleby to be patient in his wait for a Turf Moor takeover answer.

Teasdale contacted the multi-millionaire in New York after Ingleby had slammed the delaying tactics of the Burnley board.

And Ingleby - who had tabled a £4.9million bid for a 70 per stake in the club - was happy to grant the board more time.

But the eventual response will almost certainly disappoint Ingleby.

The Clarets board strongly favour the bid from a foreign-based investor whose identity has been kept a closely guarded secret.

His bid is considered to be a better all-round package, including guaranteed investment after the initial bid.

The board is also more comfortable with the perceived intentions of the mystery third party.

That deal, however, is still to be tied up - although the board are nearing an announcement.

Apax Partners have upped their original offer, and still want more detailed talks with the board, although that bid is unlikely to progress much further.

There is a possibility, however, that Ingleby and Apax could join forces if Ingleby continues his battle to gain control.

He has already announced he is prepared to buy privately owned shares in the club.

And Ingleby's camp remain privately angry at their treatment by the Burnley board.

But Mr Teasdale said today: "Mr Ingleby expects and knows we must do our best for Burnley Football Club.

"I believe we should be judged at the end of negotiations, not during them.

"I have made it quite clear that all our discussions would be dealt with on a confidential basis and this will continue.

"Under the circumstances I have nothing to add."

Supporters, however, remain furious at the board's conduct.

A Clarets Independent Supporters Association statement said: "We are dismayed and disappointed at the treatment of Messrs Ingleby and Parry.

"We also believe the position of all directors is untenable and they should resign without delay.

"If they are still of the belief that they are operating in the best interests of the club, by virtue of their dealings with the mystery third bidder, then show the supporters the true colours of this individual and then call an extraordinary general meeting."

A demonstration by fans had been planned before tonight's game against Blackpool at Turf Moor, but was called off before the postponement.

And CISA chairman Peter Heywood added: "If Ingleby has said he will give them an extra week then we will go along with that."

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