Yoseph Gutnick Could Pitch in for Demons

AUSTRALIA — Yoseph Gutnick has broken his silence on Melbourne’s plight, indicating he could re-emerge as a financial saviour.

Gutnick returned to the Demons for the first time in eight years yesterday and refused to rule out pitching in significantly more than his membership subscription.

“I wouldn’t rule out anything. Business is going OK,” Gutnick told the Herald Sun.

The reclusive former president pumped $2.4 million into Melbourne before departing after a bitter mid-season boardroom battle in 2001.

Current president Jim Stynes has turned peace-maker, luring back Gutnick and other former leaders, including Paul Gardner and Gabriel Szondy.

Gutnick arrived at the MCG for a past presidents’ photo shoot with a “minder” yesterday and was warmly greeted by Stynes.

The mining magnate, who in August struck a $135 million deal to supply Queensland phosphate to India’s largest fertiliser company, will be a regular at the club’s match-day President’s Club functions.

“If I’m invited, I will come,” Gutnick said.

Asked if he was a chance to contribute financially again, Gutnick said: “It’s possible . . . it’s possible.”

Gutnick was somewhat reluctant to be involved yesterday, but was present because of Stynes’ influence.

Asked if he had no hesitation agreeing to the photo, Gutnick replied: “I wouldn’t say I had no hesitation . . . but I’m here.”

Gutnick said Stynes’ invitation had been enough to get him over the line.

“I don’t want to talk negatively about anyone else, but he’s just a great guy,” Gutnick said.

“He’s got a very good heart.

”This is the first time I’ve appeared at a Melbourne event for eight years.“

Gutnick said the club had a ”lot of work to do“.

”I don’t think it’s going to happen overnight,“ Gutnick said. ”Jimmy is the right guy for the job.“

Gutnick has remained a member, but not gone to games.

”I’ve been following it on TV, newspapers . . . the Herald Sun,” Gutnick said.

Melbourne last week announced Hankook Tyre as a major co-sponsor in a deal believed to be worth close to $700,000 a season.

But the Demons are yet to announce a secondary co-sponsor and continue to face an uphill financial battle.

The Demons have been treading carefully and are yet to ask Gutnick to contribute, but the fact he is back is being seen as a massive positive for the club.

Stynes, after driving the Demons’ Debt Demolition campaign, has recently made a point of urging all former presidents to put their differences aside.

Other past presidents on hand yesterday were Stuart Spencer and Wayne Reid.

It is understood Gutnick phoned Stynes, offering his support, soon after he took control of the club last year.