I don’t think so. American Express first came on board when it was announced they’d agreed a deal for the naming rights to the stadium in 2010, a couple of years into TBs time as chairman. I’m not aware of them being involved with the club prior to that?
Also confirmation in that from Barber that the aim is now to be a club challenging for European places and silverwear rather than challenging for the top 10 as it was previous.