WEST Ham owner David Gold has given Crystal Palace fans a vision of what might have been after admitting that, if it was not for the 'strong personality' of Simon Jordan, he might have invested.

Three months ago the ex-Birmingham City owner was on the verge of buying a stake in Palace.

But last week Gold, along with business partner David Sullivan, took control of his boyhood club West Ham United, with a 50 per cent share believed to be worth £50m.

In light of Crystal Palace's financial downturn, Gold admitted that an uneasy relationship with Jordan prevented him, and other potential investors, from committing to the club.

"I guess from a businessman's point of view maybe I should have waited and had discussions with Crystal Palace now, but West Ham was always my desired club," said Gold. "We did have discussions about Crystal Palace, but there has been acrimony between myself and Simon Jordan, so it was difficult to help them."

For the full, exclusive interview, see this week's Croydon Advertiser - out now.