Embattled Magpies owner Ashley to sell up
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.
They could now get at least one of their wishes after the sportswear magnate revealed that he is ready to listen to offers.
In a statement yesterday, Ashley said: “I am now a dad who can’t take his kids to a football game on a Saturday because I am advised that we would be assaulted.
“Therefore, I am no longer prepared to subsidise Newcastle United. I am putting the club up for sale.”
It is understood the dialogue between Ashley and Keegan is ongoing, although cynics have suggested the timing of Friday’s meeting as fans prepared for mass protests ahead of the 2-1 defeat against Hull was little more than a stunt.
What is clear is that something needs to change fast if the Tyneside rebels are to be appeased and the Magpies are to avoid a slide into a relegation fight.
On Saturday deadline day signing Xisco got on the scoresheet nine minutes from time, but by then, the game was lost with striker Marlon King having converted a 34th-minute penalty and then taken advantage of some kamikaze defending to double the lead nine minutes after the break.
Danny Guthrie completed a black day on Tyneside when he took a senseless swing at Craig Folan and earned himself a red card and a three-match ban.
Opta fact: Marlon King has scored three goals in two league games against Newcastle, two from the spot.
Opta fact: Newcastle have won only one of their last seven Premier League matches.
NEWCASTLE: Given, Edgar (Bassong 68), Taylor, Coloccini, N’Zogbia, Geremi, Butt, Guthrie, Xisco, Owen, Ameobi (Gonzalez 61).
HULL: Myhill, McShane, Turner, Gardner, Dawson, Mendy (Folan 73), Marney (Hughes 78), Ashbee, Halmosi, King (Zayatte 83), Fagan.
Referee: Andre Marriner (W Midlands).
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