Peter Lim clarifies Gary Neville's departure: 'Mutually and amicably agreed'

Peter Lim, Valencia's Singaporean owner, insists Gary Neville's premature exit from Mestalla was done on good terms.

In conversation with The Straits Times, Lim, talking via a spokesman, said the decision to cut short Neville's time at Valencia was "mutually and amicably agreed between both sides," and also denied reports he was on vacation when the resolution was made.

Related: Valencia sacks Gary Neville after sorry start to managerial career

"This decision was carefully considered and made with the best interests of the club moving forward," the spokesman said, according to the Guardian. "Gary had also endorsed the appointment of his assistant manager Pako Ayestaran as his replacement. The timing was agreed beforehand with Gary to take place after the international break so as to minimise disruption to the Valencia team.

"Mr. Peter Lim was fully involved in all key aspects of the decision and was not, as some reports have portrayed, away in Bali on holiday throughout the process. On the day of the announcement, Mr. Lim was away in Bali on a business trip and not for a holiday."

Lim, a billionaire who made his fortunes in paper pulp and other investments, is known for his connections to Manchester United's class of '92, which, of course, includes Neville. The pair met when they promoted the Red Devils' cafe franchises in the Far East, and the Singaporean businessman currently backs Neville, his brother Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt, and Paul Scholes in their hotel and property projects, as well as their ownership of Salford City FC.