Embattled Magpies owner Ashley to sell up

BILLIONAIRE owner Mike Ashley last night confirmed he wants to sell Newcastle just 16 months after staging a £134.4 million (€169.7m) takeover.

Ashley and his executive director (football) Dennis Wise have borne the brunt of a furious backlash from supporters in the 10 days since manager Kevin Keegan walked out in protest over the club’s transfer policy.

Thousands staged demonstrations outside St James’ Park before and after Saturday’s embarrassing 2-1 Barclays Premier League defeat by Hull demanding that Ashley sell up and that Wise be removed from his post.