Amanda Staveley admits the prospective buyers of Newcastle United have been left "humbled" by the response of fans to the breakdown of their deal.
PCP Capital Partners, the Reuben brothers and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund withdrew from the deal last week, citing frustrations with the Premier League and the uncertainty prompted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, all parties have insisted they remain interested in rekindling a deal, while owner Mike Ashley has stressed the club remains open to a sale.
Frustrated Magpies supporters have rallied to apply pressure on the Premier League to explain the reasoning behind the protracted saga.
A petition calling for an independent investigation into the decision-making process has surpassed 90,000 signatures, while a host of North East MPs have added their voices to the cause. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed he also "agrees" with call for the Premier League to address the failed takeover bid in a statement.
The Newcastle United Supporters' Trust held their second town hall event over Zoom on Friday evening. Titled a 'Call for Unity', the discussion was hosted by Athletic writer George Caulkin.
The former correspondent for the Times relayed a statement from Staveley at the beginning of the meeting, and it was a message to applaud United supporters for their "huge efforts" in demanding answers.
Staveley's statement reads: "I would like to thank the NUST and all Newcastle fans for their incredible backing and huge efforts in the past few days and beyond. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
"Speaking on behalf of myself and my husband, the Reuben family and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, we are not just overwhelmed by the support, we are humbled by it.
"Our group has received e-mails and messages in their thousands, and I can't begin to tell you what that means to us. We do not take it for granted. We understand that a strong supporters' trust means a strong Newcastle.
"We understand and have seen again just how powerful and beautiful a united Newcastle can truly be.
"Thank you again, Amanda."
