Simon Jordan

Croydon-born Simon Jordan made millions in his twenties selling mobile phones. In 2000 he bought Crystal Palace Football Club, which he'd supported since childhood. Aged 31 he become the youngest Chairman in history. Ten years later, after ups, downs, and a huge level of self-financing, Jordan quit the club after being forced into administration for reasons beyond his control. During his ten-year tenure he was never afraid to speak out. He wrote a widely-followed series of columns for the Observer, which commented forthrightly on the game today.