Ex-footballer wins £500,000 from club boss

Mr Wise said he gave “former close friend” Tony Jimenez £500,000 to invest in a golf course in France. He claimed that the “agreed purpose” was not fulfilled and said he was entitled to have the money back..

Mr Jimenez disputed Mr Wise’s claim and said the money was invested in the golf course development in Les Bordes as agreed.

Judge Penelope Reed QC ruled in Mr Wise’s favour after a hearing in London, and ordered Mr Jimenez to pay compensation.

Mr Wise played for Wimbledon and Chelsea. Mr Jimenez is a co-owner of Charlton. They used to work together at Newcastle when Mr Wise was director of football and Mr Jimenez a vice president.

Judge Reed analysed evidence from both men following a hearing which started in June. She said Mr Wise, 46, had been subjected to long “sometimes aggressive” questioning but had come across as a “truthful witness”.

She ruled Mr Jimenez had to pay Mr Wise £500,000 with interest.