Walker Morris LLP is highly regarded for its expertise in the football regulation, M&A and litigation spheres, being regularly instructed by Premier League clubs and high-profile athletes. Key figures include Christian Slinger, who specialises in commercial arrangements and general compliance work. Former practice head David Hinchliffe has left the firm, along with Tim Howden and India Swall.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Walker Morris has a first-rate sports law practice, with extensive experience of acting for Premier League and EFL clubs, in both commercial and regulatory disputes. They are up there with the very best.’
'Charlotte Smith: committed, hardworking.’
‘Very client focused and commercially minded. Ability to quickly understand client commercial objectives and apply legal consultancy in very specific and directed terms.’
‘Christian Slinger has the invaluable ability to project an informal, empathetic and understanding approach with a client yet maintain a very clear professional stance.'
‘The people and diversity within the team is a huge asset to WM. They offer a wide variety of experts who are significantly experienced and extremely reliable. They are willing to take on cases that are difficult and will work diligently to get a positive outcome.’
Key clients
- AFC Bournemouth
- Burnley FC, Leeds United FC, Leicester City FC, Nottingham Forest FC and Southampton FC
- Carlisle United FC
- Dean Hoyle
- Fenwick Limited
- Mr Guochuan Lai (previous UBO of West Bromwich Albion FC)
- Nottingham Forest FC
- AFC Croydon Athletic 2023 Ltd a company majority owned by the consortium of Daniel Young, Wilfried Zaha and Stormzy.
- Sheffield United
- Wrexham FC
Work highlights
- Advised Burnley FC, Leeds United FC, Leicester City FC, Nottingham Forest FC and Southampton FC in respect of Everton FC's, at the time, alleged breaches of the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules.
- Advised Carlisle United FC on a number of commercial and finance matters. In addition, the firm advised on the takeover of Carlisle United Football Club including all aspects of due diligence, submission of the Owners' and Directors' Test documentation and other corporate advice.
- Advised AFC Bournemouth on a range of commercial matters, including the renewal of the club's stadium naming rights agreement with Vitality and a number of supply agreements.