Daniel Kretinsky makes one thing very clear amid West Ham boardroom turmoil

Daniel Kretinsky has spoken publicly for the first time since the behind-the-scenes turmoil at West Ham United involving David Sullivan.

Sullivan announced in a statement on Saturday that he is stepping down as West Ham joint-chairman with immediate effect.

It comes amid allegations that have been made against the co-owner that are set to air in a BBC show on Monday evening.

Sullivan's exit comes hot on the heals of fellow co-chair Karren Brady also departing the London Stadium.

It leaves Kretinsky as the focal point high up at West Ham, with reports suggesting he now wants to increase his stake.

Daniel Kretinsky vows not to leave West Ham

It is fair to say West Ham are in turmoil right now when you factor in the backdrop of the recent relegation.

While Sullivan leaving may be a positive among the fanbase, it comes at a time when West Ham are in desperate need of funds.

Widespread reports on Monday suggested Kretinsky is now looking to become majority shareholder at West Ham.

Sullivan is said to be willing to sell his stake in the Hammers, which suggests Kretinsky could get his wish.

The Czech has now spoken publicly in an interview with Vsechno Zacína Dnes, as relayed by InFotbal.cz, as he outlined his intention to stay on.

“Here we are a minority shareholder; we don’t manage the club, but of course we are part of important conversations," he said.

“It helps a little that you don’t have the ultimate responsibility, so you don’t feel like you’ve spoiled something for the fans.

"But even here I’ve found my stress limits. We’ve made mistakes in the past that cost us relegation.

“I will definitely stay. It doesn’t matter if we’re in the first or second league. That’s not a reason to leave the club.”

Kretinsky has made clear he is going nowhere and, while he did not comment on reports he wants to increase his shareholding, that is made pretty clear by the fact he is frustrated not to have more of a say.

How could new-look West Ham boardroom shape up?

With Brady gone and Sullivan reportedly looking to sell his stakes, it makes perfect sense for mega-rich Kretinsky to up his shareholding.

Kretinsky would therefore have the majority of shares and be able to call the shots, as he clearly wants to.

Bringing on another millionaire - or indeed billionaire - would surely then make sense

West Ham could do with as much money as possible right now, with Kretinsky only able to do so much.

While the short-term impact of Sullivan's exit will soon be felt, this will only be a positive in the long term.