Blinded By Your Mates Mike

edh86 wrote...

to be fair, Ashley said in his statement that funds were limited to a point. That should have been made clear from the outset. If however (and it's a big if) Xisco and Gonzalez do turn out to be decent and adapt quickly, then potentially that is five decent signings which is good enough for a summer transfer window when your not manchester city or chelsea.

Xisco as a striker may not be such a bad buy as viduka and owen are injured so much. My worry is (and this is the big if) that he was signed from the Spanish Second Divison and it looks like he couldn't get a game at Villereal with a lot of his time spent here being out on loan at other clubs.

I agree with your point raised about ashley missing the point. But also, what was ashley doing in a new york club while keegan thrashed out his future with wise and jiminez in Newcastle? And why the lack of communication until now? Had some of the stuff in that statement come out earlier, then maybe he wouldn't be a position where he can't take his kids to SJP. Surely thats got to have been one of his mistakes.

I was disappointed with some of the fans at the hull game - particularly the bufoons who used their season ticket or paid for a seat to get into the ground, only to shout abuse at people buying refreshments and programmes! The manner in which it was done in with kids about wasn't nice and hypocritical when you've paid to watch the match yourselves- that pumps lot more £ into ashleys coffers then the price of pie and a pint! What were they doing at the match if they felt that strongly, why didn't they join the protest outside?

Posted by: edh86  | September 15, 2008 12:10 AM

Paul Patterson wrote...

Personally the only two problems I see with the Shepherd regime, was that he 1) Wanted to spend big when he financially couldn’t and 2) control what signings were made. Oh and the fact that he sacked managers that were his rubbish appointments and sacked them when the transfer window had shut.

So really he’s no different from Ashley. Ashley’s statement has glaring errors, the main one being, why wait till the romance between fan and owner had begun divorce proceedings to make a statement of intent.

The other worry is that the debt ran up by Shepherd seems huge, certainly if it still remains AFTER Ashley has paid off a huge chunk of it.

The other is more worrying, Ashley is supposed to be a successful businessman, certainly being a billionaire would back it up. But remember, this man bought the club WITHOUT checking what the state of the finances were, this shows either two things, he’s either mighty brave, or mighty stupid, as I can’t see why a worthwhile business man would pay £100m+ to buy a business that he hasn’t checked the structure of.

Also in his statement he said ‘I was always prepared to bank roll Newcastle up to the tune of £20 million per year but no more’ Well this isn’t good enough, he simply shouldn’t have bought the club then, because the money in football has moved beyond what Ashley can afford. This again say’s BAD BUSINESSMAN.

He also didn't understand his market- BAD BUSINESSMAN.

The way forward for Ashley is two fold. First- dispense with Dennis Wise and his motley crew. (Why appoint them anyway if the financial situation was so bad??) Then re-instate Kevin Keegan, at least I have confidence that the club won’t go down under his leadership. Secondly, look to sell at the first opportunity, regardless of greed, profit etc. Just take what is face value, with regards to what you have paid into the club. NO MORE!!

I haven’t even began to consider his flawed ‘Arsenal policy’ If he’s tried to copy Arsenal then he must have got something wrong- AGAIN BAD BUSINESSMAN!!

This club has ran it’s course with regards to how stupidly funny it can seem to other rival fans. It needs to be scraped from it base and re-built, but this, like Ashley says, will take time, and more importantly money. Something which Ashley hasn’t enough of either.

Paul.

Posted by: Paul Patterson  | September 15, 2008 12:29 AM

ronnie lambert wrote...

If you ask me cockney press, we planned rather hap-hazardly for a weekend of forceful demos. Nobody really had time to organize anything, but with out and out dedication and goodwill, we managed a decent national protest, enough to gain recognition as a dignified band of brothers intent on one point being made, ie. that Ashley's intent to keep this club running as it were, in the same routine as it was before Keegan walked, and the same would continue as before with Wise, Vetere, Jiminez and the bombastic Llambias carrying on as before was never to be tamely accepted again. Well done us in showing that point rather forcefully to whomever was observing with cam-corders from office windows. We are in the driving seat now prospective buyers, you really need to be on line with our simple agenda from now on, and we're not asking much from a business intent.on making money. It's easy if you treat the manager, board , players and fans right. Just read Sir Alex's blueprint.....you can't fail guys...we'll be right behind you with sincerity and candour, if you show it we'll back you all of the way. Come on buyers, taste our hospitality and dream your dream, we are fifty-odd thousand angels who want to make you succeed.

Posted by: ronnie lambert  | September 15, 2008 4:17 AM

David Bell wrote...

Spot on if Wise et al had done a half decent job signing players then opinion may have been divided. They patently haven't and the squad is wafer thin. To let Milner go (albeit for a good wedge) without having a better or at least comparable replacement lined up is gross mis-management. To say Shweinsteger (or whatever) then said no begs the question did no one think to ask him before loosing Milner. Was the WOW signing plus 3/4 other signings ever promised or did I dream that bit.

Posted by: David Bell  | September 15, 2008 6:43 AM

Graham wrote...

It's impossible to judge Wise & Jimenez if you don't know what budget they were given and Ashley is taking responsibility for the budget in his statement. Judged by the signings they did make compared to what they got the outgoing players they did fine. It's easy to knock a Director of Football but remember even King Kev was one at Fulham, well until he managed to elbow local boy Ray Wilkins out the door.

Freddie won't be back, prospective buyers naturally seek the advice of an ex-owner but it doesn't mean they want him to run the shop!

Posted by: Graham  | September 15, 2008 8:36 AM

Henrya wrote...

Luke I completely agree with your analysis of the situation Mike Ashley finds himself in. I found a deal of poignancy in his statement and perhaps he needs to understand that the beef the fans had on Saturday was over what he has allowed to happen and not with himself!
Its a very sad time for those of us who dearly wish to see some stability for our club and I'm afraid that another big time charlie is not the answer to maintaining our heritage as a "name" in the football world.
I dearly hope Mr Ashley reads your blog and realises that your words reflect exactly how we see it.
Don't just give up Mike, think about your choices. We are not fickle or shallow, we are simply hurt and insecure after years of abuse. Be strong and do what you know to be the right thing.
You know that when you're chosen by the Toon its for life.
Take a deep breath, think about it, don't just walk away because we've had a row.
Take a chance and give Keegan what he needs and wants. If he fails then he fails, we'll still give the team all he support we can. How can we not?

Posted by: Henrya  | September 15, 2008 8:40 AM

Paul Wright wrote...

Luke,

A fantastic piece backed up by your additional article of 'How Ashely's Men let him down' on the 15th.
If only the 'red tops' and Sky would read your thoughts above then they may be able to understand our interpretation of debacle.

It is yet again embarrassing to see the abusive emails aimed at the NUFC hierarchy and intoxicated people of the Toon broadcasted on national TV/Radio just saying 'Get 'em out' for no other reason than they (Ashley & Wise) have removed our beloved KK. As you know Luke, the previous regime was a sham and a joke behind the scene! The thought of returning to the 'Brawler from Byker' scares me more than dragging Wise out of retirement and making him captain over Owen!
We appreciate everything that Ashley has done for the club in the start and Mort was a breath of fresh air - as you pointed out, Ashley surrounded himself with people who shouldn’t be making decisions about there club sitting at home down south because they dont understand that the club cant be run from a 3-day week based in London. It demands more than that, a commitment that matches the supporters, a love of NUFC that can not be understood by just attending the occasional match.

The structure put in place by Ashley could work if KK (or A.N.Other) was given the respect they deserve and given full control of player recruitment & 1st Team Affairs as promised. This is downfall of his rein and its a shame that all of that has been clouded by an emotional statement from the PR-advised Ashley.

The end or the beginning of the end is the exact description of where we are! We had taken two steps forward but are now further back than those days 20 years ago.

PS - Owen's contract! Why O Why would the great man sign that now, he'll be fully in his right to sit on that now until January under the cloud that will mask it until then and then talk to potential suitors then, I don’t blame the man.

Posted by: Paul Wright  | September 15, 2008 9:08 AM

Andy wrote...

Be careful what you wish for ! Taking in mind the old adage the pro Keegan (yes there are a couple of us who do not see KK as the future of nufc) mob have won the day.

As someone who no longer lives in the NE i have being saddened by some of the xenophobia which has been flying around over the last few days - you yourself have recived some of it Luke. I feel few have considered how the xenophobia will impact on the potential buyers of the club.

So what do 'we' want.

1. A multi billionaire;

2. Preferably non foreign - ie: South of Jarrow;

3. Got £300m for fat Mike;

4. Prepared to give unlimited control and funds to a serial quitter.

Perhaps i am the only one who fails to see the incompatability between some of those requirements. The numbers have changed so much in football - this idea that people are prepared to spend hundreds of millions and then let someone else have full control is fanciful.

MA has made one big mistake - he has allowed a situation to develop whereby the squad is ill equipped for the challenges ahead. However, the living beyond its means of the past must be seen as contributing to current status quo. Butt, Viduka, Smith, Barton -just how many mediocre players are on £60k plus per week at Newcastle.

For the club to move forward -and potentially attract new owners - the fans must drop this obsession with Keegan. It is damaging the long term of the club.

I fear for what sort of new owner could try to use a keegan / shearer figurehead to get control. Then when they renage on promises there will be a falling out and the cycle will start again. We have already had the ludicrous picture of Fat Freddie saying he will come back and reinstall Keegan - conveniently forgetting that FF was part of a regime who feel out with KK in the first place because his priority was to line his pockets (through the flotation of the club).

I have for a period now thought nufc is increasingly unmanageable - i now believe it to be increasingly unownable.

Posted by: Andy  | September 15, 2008 9:11 AM

MR.ROBERT WILSON wrote...

I dont believe everyone wanted Ashley
to leave,all most people wanted was
for kevin keegan to be allowed to manage the club in the way he knows
best.
Therefore FULL control of player
purchases & sales is vital.

Posted by: MR.ROBERT WILSON  | September 15, 2008 9:12 AM

Nick wrote...

Hi Luke,

I honestly do not know what to make of the club being up for sale, it could be great or it could be an absolute nightmare.

One thing I would like to ask is why did the Ashley regime never release any statements before? As a fan I have always been left wondering where he wants to take the club but all we ever get is stories from the press.

It was quite refreshing to actually hear his vision for Newcastle United FC.

Posted by: Nick  | September 15, 2008 9:18 AM

Stuart wrote...

Luke,

I don't think Ashley will be staying around for too long. He can't! There's a manager to appoint and nobody will take the job knowing that the owner is going to sell. Unless he wants to do real damage to the club and therefore reducing it's worth he'll sell asap so a new owner can bring his own man in. This can't drag on for more than a month.. i've heard that Ambani is still interested in the club and this admission from Ashley that he will sell will be music to Ambani's ears, certainly given that he couldn't even get to talk to Ashley before. I'm sure Ashley will be keen to speak to him now.

Posted by: Stuart  | September 15, 2008 9:22 AM

Shane wrote...

Absolutely spot on.

Ashley had the benefit of everyone's doubt until the end of the transfer window. It was then when everyone’s suspicions were proved correct.

For me Ashley’s only main mistakes (be them absolute clangers) are:

1) Allow Mort to leave and replace him with drinking buddies from the smoke; cronies of whom had next to no experience or qualifications to do the job.

2) Take said cronies’ side, despite them being glaringly out of order by undermining the only man who gave the regime any credibility.

3) Allowing a wall of silence to be built between the men running the club and the supporters.

We Geordies DO want sustained development and aren’t interested in over paid galacticos. The fact that Ashley has given reference to this in his (oh so after the lord mayor’s show) statement just goes to show how out of touch he really was with the fans. He’s latching on to some lazy journalist’s ideas…now that really boils my…..

If only he had the bottle to agree with Keegan last Friday and get rid of his mates, then this mess could have been just about averted. I know you stick with your mates through thick and thin, but in this case here was just too much at stake man. Wise, Jiminez, Llambias OUT. It’s that simple.

Posted by: Shane  | September 15, 2008 9:24 AM

Commulus wrote...

We can see you sneaking....in

Had we received that ostensibly heartfelt statement from big Mike as a statement of commitment, we may have accepted it, pah, that’s the irony, oh yes now, great, at this instant, when it’s half past, too late! I think he’s actually doing things that I wanted to be done. The failure is the lack of communication with the fans, the lack of the mission statement, the state of the Nation address, where were they? The club were really planning ahead, without telling the fans, and at the same time falling behind the second tier the also-rans.

Unconfirmed reports have said that the Keegan – Wise bust up came through the Sweinsteiger debacle, Wise insisted that the pig lifter didn’t want to come to Newcastle. Keegan got on the phone to his agent, who denied any contact had been made from the club. Keegan was being deceived, he and the fans were being stitched up!

What are the rules of this press game in which the object is to drive a wedge between the owner and supporter when they can, between Manager and supporter, when possible, between supporter and owner when expedient, between player and fan just for fun, or between player and player, or player and manager….do they toss a coin to start?

Hearsay that, ‘yes’ we are truly revolting Caulkin, we can see you sneaking through the undergrowth! Your weenie pitched hat, tilted as you hide from the sunlight. We are truly revolting, we could see what you were up to long before it happened, how you must be gloating now, a dancing troll to a tuneless triumph!

Tittle-tattle binges, Yes we are revolting Samuels, as you plagiarised principled polemic, are you dancing with your chum, or just marching to the same tune, a cynical one beat lament, a deadbeat dirge!

And Yes we are revolting Young, It’s an inherently dangerous game you play, to scoop, a scoop before the event, to cause the event, to trigger, activate, suggest from your Gollum like deportment that we need your poisoned advice!

Incidentally Luke, the small scale of the protest came as a bit of a shock and the ground just about full, It just goes to show that you shouldn’t organise a boycott at the same time and place as a protest! I entered late only to find a stranger in my seat, and the blighter was munching on a pie!

Yes, that’s all we need, the return of Shepherd, I only hope the consortiums in consultation are using him as a local connection and may have some admirable minor role for him as custodian and keeper of the trophy cabinet keys.

,

Posted by: Commulus  | September 15, 2008 10:16 AM

JC wrote...

Terrified about the return of Freddie Shepherd, we'd have to be mad to let him come back. Who's to say Keegan will work for him anyway, this is after all the man who boasts he's got Keegans resignation letters in his toilet!

I agree totally with the blog, Mike Ashley has paid the price of backing fools we never wanted in the first place, if Dennis Wise had any sense he'll resign today. As for a buyer, we can but live in hope. Mike Ashley's main problem, I feel, is that there was too liitle by way of communication. I understand the reasons behind this, but as fans we need to know what is happening with our club. The words from Ashley appear heartfelt, and nobody wants to see him fearing for his familys safety. At the end of the day, the damage has been done, and it's clear MA is sensible enough to realise this. The worry I have is that now NOBODY will take the managerial reins while there is soo much uncertainty regarding the clubs future. Who will walk out to join a team that could be sold in a weeks time?

My main concern is what this will mean for the season, after the shambles of Saturday (which wasn't totally unexpected) we could quite easily face a season of struggling against relegation AGAIN. Those players now have no excuses and really need to show some passion and play for the shirt, under any circumstances losing at home to Hull City was a disgrace and they should not be allowed to hide under the protests excuse.

Posted by: JC  | September 15, 2008 10:26 AM

Thomas Rawe wrote...

Hi Luke.
Your article on Ashley being "Blinded by his mates" was absolutely spot on! I could not have agreed with you more. Your article should be copied and sent to Ashley as a blueprint for turning things round. Start by getting rid of the two thugs Wise and Llambias. Keep up the good work.

Thomas Rawe
Bryne, Norway

Posted by: Thomas Rawe  | September 15, 2008 10:36 AM

supporter sth tyneside wrote...

luke i was not going to write again when you conveniently omitted my non abusive comments re. the arrogant strutting ego maniac that is the mackem manager. i must compliment you however on your piece on the ashley statement. i think every word you say is right on the button. i actually think ashley does have the club at heart. i also think his plan of running the club in a sensible financial manner was the correct way to go. as was the strategy to recruit up and coming hungry players from around the world, rather than the mercenary over priced overpaid players we have been saddled with in the past.it will be regretful if this policy is abandoned. if it is possible to feel sorry for a billionaire then i have to say i do feel sympathy for him. i think you are right in that he was let down by his mates, especially in my view by the odious llambias. finally however i do not exonerate keegan. he to played his part in this mess. for a man who everyone seems to think has the fans in his heart he has a funny way of showing it. this is the second time he has walked away. both times leaving the club in turmoil. he has in fact walked away from every job he has ever had, but has done it twice to newcastle. if 8 months was the best he could do then he should not have bothered. i hope we can have a new start with new owners and a new stable grown up manager.

Note From Luke
I wondered where you had gone! As I said at the time, I did not delete the comments, I don't think I ever received them so if you want to take a pop at Sunderland's manager in the future feel free, I won't delete your comment

Posted by: supporter sth tyneside  | September 15, 2008 10:49 AM

Tom wrote...

Well said Luke - here and in your article. The bottom line is though some of his statement is impressive it has come too late. It should have been a statement of intent at the beginning and not a statement of regret at the end. Champagne on beer money is absolutely fine - I'd welcome it in fact, but the talent catchers have to be the real deal. Dennis Wise is not the next Arsene Wenger. In fact he's not even the poor man's Wenger. He was a limited footballer with a limited brain now on £1m per year for three days week. Something wrong there. I've no idea how much Wenger earns, part time or not!

Posted by: Tom  | September 15, 2008 10:58 AM

ActionSteve wrote...

Sorry if i'm starting to sound like a stooge for the board, but i feel I have to stick up for them again in regards to the transfer dealings. You say (if you include your Journal article) that fans accepted the financial constraints of the club, and didn't expect world-class signings, but then you criticise the job done by the 'recruitment team', whilst praising the players they've brought in!
You say they've failed because we needed a left-back, centre-back and creative midfielder.
Firstly, Coloccini is a centre-back (as is Bassong). If you're suggesting we needed another top-class CB, then that would mean Steve Taylor would prob leave as he expects to start (and/or Cacapa and Edgar would be pushed further down the reckoning so they may want to leave). Neither Cannavaro, Terry or even Dunne would come to sit on the bench as cover for Taylor.
Left back: maybe we could have signed the likes of a Bridge or Shorey, but they would have to start and that means our 6 million pound spanish U-21 is just backup - no 'top' player is going to come to Newcastle to be cover. N'Zog, Bassong, even Coloccini (plus a couple of reserve players) can play left-back, which is plenty of cover IF you want to keep Enrique. None of them maybe top class in that position, but Man U won the league last season and I couldn't tell you their 'specialist' left back cover for Evra.
Creative Midfielder: this is a position i would agree we needed strengthening, but then isn't that why Gonzalez has come in? I would agree that a permanent signing would be best, and we don't really know if Gonzalez is that good, but since we all have level-headed expectations for the team and didn't expect us to sign the likes of Deco, Ronaldinho or Moutinho, who could we have signed? I can't think of a good, proven creative midfielder available for let's say, under 10 million, that would excite the majority of fans - I rate Jimmy Bullard, even though he's not that 'creative', but he's not going to sell many season tickets.
The way I see it, if the recruitment team were told they have £5 million net to spend on transfers they've done a fantastic job.
However, if they were told they had 50 million, but whatever they didn't spend they got to keep for themselves, that's when we have a real problem!

Posted by: ActionSteve  | September 15, 2008 10:59 AM

Freddy who? wrote...

er Freddy Shepherd would get Keegan back would he? Now correct me if I am wrong but did Keegan not say he would not return to manage the club under the Shepherd/Hall regime?

Stop talking bull Frederick....your not wanted or needed...Get yourself to Majorca...its nice and sunny there

Posted by: Freddy who?  | September 15, 2008 11:21 AM

Mickey Hall wrote...

It seems extremely suspect that Ashley waited until now to make us privy to his 'vision' for Newcastle United. I'm not sure what I can believe in all of it, he says he was only willing to put 20m of his own money per year into the club, well by my estimates he hasn't spent a penny of that on signings this summer, he must have broken even just about from the sales of Emre, Milner etc versus the purchases of Collocini, Guthrie and Xisco (Guiteirrez was extremely cheap from all accounts). When you factor in the £40 million TV rights money he's actually done alright really. And where does his fictional 'wow' signing fit into all this exactly? There's too much that has been said by all parties (Wise, Ashley and Llambias) that contradicts earlier statements to be able to believe any of it really.

As for the bit about not being able to take his family to the match for fear of Newcastle fans assaulting them, well it's insulting to accuse Toon fans of being capable of assaulting children, for this is what he's inferring. He's playing this as a victim in all that has happened and it would seem, judging by the football message boards I've visited today, that the rest of the country is falling for it.

Posted by: Mickey Hall  | September 15, 2008 11:31 AM

J L Wilson wrote...

A very considered and sensible article. I belive that Mike Ashley was trying to do the right thing, it was unfortunate he chose the wrong route. As for Mr Shepherd returning, NO THANK YOU.

Posted by: J L Wilson  | September 15, 2008 11:52 AM

Ray York wrote...

Yes I would like to know how the hell Freddy Shepherd has been approached by so called foreign potential buyers, as far as I am aware he has nowt to do with the club and never should again. Whatever you feel about Ashley it was apparent to most of us, even before his statement yesterday, that had Shepherd still been in charge we would now have been in administration at the best. So stay away Shepherd the last thing we need is you, either as a negotiator or future board member.

Posted by: Ray York  | September 15, 2008 11:52 AM

Gerry Hagon wrote...

I have read all of Mike Ashley's pronouncement regarding his decision to sell Newcastle United. An amazing read for several reasons.
First he tells us that when he bought Newcastle United for £134m he was unaware that he had to spend a further £110m just to reduce the debt to a manageable level. In fact, he says, the debts are still massive as transfer fees are still outstanding and the money up front for sponsorship and advertising deals had all been spent.
Just what sort of businessman buys a business without first checking its financial situation? Anyone up here could have advised him that the financial expertise of the Shepherd/Hall dynasty was limited to say the least.
Second, he says that he was prepared to back the club to the tune of £20m per annum. Not much sign of that this transfer window. No mention of fans pre-season ticket money, nor monies from the Football League, Sky Sports, or anything that brings in money and lots of it.
Third, he seems completely unaware of the north aversion at being run from London let alone by Denis Wise, Jiminez and Llambias (just what does he do anyway?).
Fourth he states that he and his family can no longer go to football matches at home or away because of the danger of being assaulted. Because of this he was no longer prepared to subsidise Newcastle United. Frankly no one with a high public profile can now expect to live normally, I am afraid. His prominent position up here is such that he will possibly be subjected to the antics of the nut cases in this area but there are nut cases in every area in the UK. Sad but true.
He still seems not to accept any responsibility for anything himself. The nub of the problem is Keegan's relationship with Wise, Jiminez and Llambias. His refusal to see this will be a serious handicap to anyone taking over any coaching job at Newcastle.
Finally not a glowing recommendation to encourage anyone to buy the club is it? I do not think he is really serious, he believes that he can still win through with the dreadful set up he has created himself. Just like Arsenal, eh? Ask Wenger.

Posted by: Gerry Hagon  | September 15, 2008 12:07 PM

Glenn wrote...

I totally agree with your article, Luke. I'd just like to add that if Wise and Jiminez had done a decent job and not been totally incompetent, most mags would have forgiven him. The fact he hasn't has compounded fans dislike for him.

What Ashley doesn't seem to be aware of is the fact that in his previous spell Keegan had a good eye for a player, a good record of persuading players to come and, important from a business point of view, almost all of the players he bought ended up appreciating in value.

The other factor that has gone against Ashley was the promise of a 'wow' signing. Presumably this was something else he entrusted to Wise & Jiminez who were again unable to achieve - unless they thought he wanted a 'who' signing (2 of those on deadline day!).

It also begs the question as to whether Ashley's investment in the club was limited to reducing debt rather than investing in the team. I understand that the net position on player transfers is around nil.

Keegan did his job well & could have done Wise's job much better than Wise seems to have done. For certain, Wise appears to have been found wanting and unbelievable that such a successful businessman failed to see who was the weakest link and who should be walking.

Posted by: Glenn  | September 15, 2008 12:25 PM

Sy wrote...

Your article in the main paper this morning couldn't have echoed my own views on this situation more, Luke.

Without going back over old ground, my other main thoughts are these...

- It both saddens and angers me that Sky Sports and the national media have jumped on the point about Ashley being advised not to go to games because he'll be assaulted. Even worse, they're attempting to say that his kids will be assaulted too. This seems to be taking focus away from the real issues behind the current situation, and I find this thoroughly distasteful but typical of the national media.

Yet again the club's fans are all being painted with a single brush as thugs without two brain cells to rub together. Sadly though, while the rent-a-mob/rent-an-idiot views are the only ones broadcast by Sky, they can keep this going as long as they please.

- I hope Ashley is true to his word when selecting the next owner of the club. This is vitally important and I really hope no idiots come on here saying Shepherd should even be considered. Surely if Ashley is true to his word, then he'll veto any such bid which includes Shepherd.

- It seems sad in a way that a perfectly sensible and acceptable business plan has been ruined by a handful of people. If the recruitment setup continued finding players of the quality of Jonas and Coloccini, then I don't think anyone would be complaining. But something happened behind the scenes which we still haven't been informed of which threw the whole situation into disarray. Proof of Wise, Jiminez and possibly Llambias' failure to sign enough players was evident when we could only field three midfielders against Hull, a young centre back at right back and a player we were desperate to get rid of a month ago.

It's amazing what a difference two weeks can make. Hopefully by January's transfer window we're in a stable position in the league and have the club's immediate future sorted out. Earlier would be good obviously, but I'm not banking on it.

By the way, Luke, any chance you could be the one Sky Sports turns to for local commentary on the club? I'd sooner see your views represent us rather than these fanzine editors, etc. They all make me cringe!

Posted by: Sy  | September 15, 2008 12:28 PM

rich oatmers wrote...

Nooooo! Please not Shepherd, if there is anyone more culpable for the club's current plight it is Shepherd. The man who sacked Sir Bobby, raped the club and it's resources and left the club with millions and millions of pounds... Now he wants back in???

I'd never thought I'd say it, but if Shepherd gets back in. I'll end my ties with Newcastle United then are there.

Posted by: rich oatmers  | September 15, 2008 12:40 PM

Mark Green wrote...

Still can't help thinking that if the fans supported their team as eagerley as they supported protests, that we wouldn't have been beaten on Saturday.

I wonder if Charles N'zogbia was trying to read that stupid protest flag circulating after half-time, when he let Marlon King get in on goal behind? Whatever, it was followed by a period of domination for Hull.

Probably most of the protesting 'fans' outside the ground didn't have tickets anyway. As the timid fans supporting the team inside the ground were a lot quieter during the game.

Posted by: Mark Green  | September 15, 2008 1:10 PM

Restless Native wrote...

I heard a Geordie lady on R5 this morning saying that she felt ashamed that Big Fat Mike says he can no longer attend games with his children, for fear of being assaulted.

Firstly, there is no certainty that BFM or anyone close to him would be assaulted in any other way than verbally.

Secondly, that feeling of shame is EXACTLY the reaction BFM was hoping for when he issued the statement.

I've said it before, we're in the midst of a propoganda war here as well as a power struggle. And BFM and his cronies don't fight cleanly.

If he is GENUINELY so concerned about his safety, he could sell the club for £250m tomorrow and walk away. The reports I've read indicate that there'd be more than 1 wealthy taker at that price. But no, Big Fat Mike apparently wants to turn a BIG FAT PROFIT and is looking for in excess of £300m, with some papers quoting £450m. What price the personal safety of you and your family? Well exactly.

MIKE ASHLEY IS A LIAR. He has systematically deceived Keegan, the fans and the City of London before us. Don't believe the emotionally-charged, man of the people crap. It's all part of the game. Keep up the pressure.

ASHLEY OUT.

Posted by: Restless Native  | September 15, 2008 1:27 PM

John Gilroy wrote...

I hope i'm wrong but to me things look very bad.
Saturdays display on the field showed two things:
1 This was a game we should have won, on paper at least, why we didsn't I dont know. The onlr reason I can put forward is that the team were affected buy the present termoil.
2 players should have been bought in the transfer window that could have an immeadiate impact on the team. The squad looks very thin and the lack of a recognised left back was apparrent.

Now there is no chance of rectifying this until the January transfer window and by then it could be too late. If we lose the next two or three games all the talk will be of relegation and players and a decent manager will not be interested in coming to this mess of a club.

Posted by: John Gilroy  | September 15, 2008 2:15 PM

A fan wrote...

Let us take Mike Ashley’s “resignation� at face value and not simply good PR. Generally Mike’s statement hit a chord which we can all relate to. We all want NUFC to be on a sound footing and we all want to enjoy supporting our club.
Why are we where we are today:
• Poor or nonexistent lines of communication, both from the Technical Director to the Manager and from the Chairman to the fans.
• Going into business with your friends.
• To continue....

Posted by: A fan  | September 15, 2008 2:56 PM

Rich York wrote...

Unless we are bought soon, we are going to be neck deep in the brown stuff. Who's going to come and manage a club knowing that the chances are they will be replaced as soon as the new owners are on board?

It's all well and good having a long term, fiscally prudent plan (which I believe was the correct strategy - who wouldn't?), but if you then scupper that by appointing individuals that undermine the most important part of that plan in any football club - the manager - then it ain't worth having it in the first place. Instability in football is a recipe for failure. Man Utd and Arsenal are the two most successful clubs in English footie, and look how long they have had the managers in place. And you don't see board members within those two clubs buying and selling behind the managers back.

Llambias, by all accounts, is not the greatest people person, lacking in any sort of subtlety or intelligence when it comes to decision making, communication etc. I think Dennis Wise is just not up to the job - he fails to land Warnock, Modric, Aimar, Schweinsteiger (and they are the ones we know about), whilst sanctioning the sale of Milner. The squad is thinner now than it was last season. I admit, the early indicators regarding Collocini, Guiteirez and Guthrie are promising - but that's all they are, early indicators.

It's going to be a tough few months, and no mistake.

Posted by: Rich York  | September 15, 2008 3:02 PM

Bob Clarke wrote...

Good article Luke. Who is gonna take the job on with all the uncertainty , only a fool , what a shambles we are at the moment. Still I live in hope as ive done for the past 50 yesrs.

Posted by: Bob Clarke  | September 15, 2008 8:27 PM

RAY WILSON wrote...

Hi Luke -Get yourself on sky sports tomorrow my son -your article says it all-well done for a fantastic insight into what we the fans all know. It is amazing that Ashley could not see this-how on earth could any one let alone a high profile business man like Ashley not see the failures of his weak and innefectual board= I bet Llambias and Wise have never sat in a board chair in their life until silly Mike entrusted them with that honour -and what a mess they have made of it.The only person who could sense the danger surrounding the toon was King Kev -and as they refused to even meet him half way -its not surprising he walked . The real danger now is the current plight and aftermath of deadly Mikes failed leadership-what a mess we are in. Keep up the good work Luke- I am starting to think Leyton Orient might become my second favourite team. PS Luke can you clarify -did Terry mac resign or were his services terminated by the club -reports in the press have been conflicting.

Note From Luke
I think you've taken enough football punishment without taking on Orient as your second team! As for Terry Mac, nobody is entirely sure as the club still haven't confirmed that he has gone! As we know, though, communication is not their strong point.

Posted by: RAY WILSON  | September 15, 2008 11:13 PM

Siomi wrote...

It’s not Black and White!

Ashley seems to genuinely care for the club and wants to enjoy our football as much as the next fan. But he appointed mates and has allowed himself to be misadvised and be blinded by loyalty to staff (said mates) and an administrative structure that was always going to struggle with so many egos involved. Fiddling in LA while Newcastle United burned to the ground was not wise, but foolish and arrogant. His inability to communicate his passion and vision and his lack of desire to bang heads together when it mattered has now cost him this dream.

Wise has actually made some astute signings, and given the right coaching and motivation, and a bit of luck on the injuries, we could have had a half decent team that would have challenged for Cup Honours and a possible UEFA cup spot, AND would have provided some great entertainment on the way. But, he f***ed up the final week of transfers, left us wafer thin and exposed and appears to have lorded it over Kevin, and we know how he does not luv that!

Llambias is just a spiv and should never have been appointed, mates or not. The only black and white related to him would be his spats. Communication and interaction was always going to be essential with such a large and complex administrative structure, and he has obviously no ability in this area at all. His inadequacies are only highlighted by the success of Mort in this area.

Kevin is a great coach and a wonderful motivator. He is charismatic and has the undying love and respect of the fans. It has long been said that he has black and white flowing through his veins. But he too is not blameless. He decision to stick by the thug Barton (against the wishes of fans and the board) was misguided and clueless. Walking away from a difficult situation is also gutless and shows a disrespect to all those who trusted and supported him to do his best for Newcastle United. Tantrums and petulance are expected from overpaid players, not their managers. If Kevin had bothered to communicate and interact and negotiate, we may not be in this situation now.

So it isn’t as black and white as some fans would like it to be. There are a lot of grey issues as well as grey roles and responsibilities. More discussion, interaction and communication would have gone a long way to clearing things up.

Appointing a new manager when the club is up for sale is a joke. Ashley has mended some busted bridges with his recent statement and now has some sympathy amongst fans. But he has to go one step further and move Llambias out and articulate a clearer (lesser) role for Wise or move him out too. Both will be out if he sells anyway, so they may as well dust the CVs off now. Enough damage has been done.

And as a final mark of respect for the club, and to ensure he can come and watch games with us in future, he should publicly state that he will sell for what he paid and will not attempt to profit from this mess.

We then have to hope that a buyer (who will inevitably have to be foreign and into gas or oil) will be able to see the true warm generous and enthusiastic nature of folk from the North East, and not be influenced by the xenophobic and sometime racist attitude of the minority (the taunts directed at Mido were not appreciated in the Arab street).

I remain optimistic for the black and white that is Newcastle United, the best team in the world.

Posted by: Siomi  | September 16, 2008 9:28 AM

Anonymous wrote...

Luke,

Firstly, well done for an excellent article - well balanced and objective. I like many others wish that the tv cameras would allow someone like your good self to speak about these issues as I consider your viewpoint to be representative of the majority of Newcastle fans. Instead they manage to find 7-year old eejits who are simply happy to be on the tele, spouting nonsense, thus furthering the negative picture the rest of the country already has about NUFC fans.

I feel incredibly frustrated by MA's statement. Whilst clearly written by a very good PR team,it was a sensible well thought out article. Why couldn't he have communicated this to us earlier?! I feel certain that the majority of fans would have bought into the dream and backed it 100%

Whilst I'm not going to defend Mr Shepherds running of the club,surely it is not him but Sir John Hall who is the real villain of the piece as it was he who triggered MA's takeover believing it to be in the best interests of Newcastle United. Really?

Interesting that we haven't heard a squeak from him since the circus began...

Posted by: Anonymous  | September 16, 2008 10:25 AM

Dave B wrote...

Luke - All this is just Mike Ashley's clever way of not paying for extras for the Hollywood horror comedy 'Goal 4'.

The plot line revolves around a megalomaniac sugar-daddy, played by Danny Devito, falling out with the popular permed man of the people, Paul Michael Glazier.

After the locals descend on the castle atop a hill with flaming torches an ex-number 9 played by Steve Austin is given robotic legs and employed as a player coach. Things begin to look up.

The football club and surrounding area are subsequently awarded national status by the UN and go on to win and hold the next four world cups in a row. Steve Austin is made weekday Pope and is awarded the Nobel Prize for discovering a global cure for constipation while clearing his waste compactor at home.

Apparently a bloke with a pony-tail approved the new script following a power-lunch in L.A. First drafts that mirrored real events were dismissed as a tad far fetched.

Posted by: Dave B  | September 16, 2008 10:40 AM

zulu wrote...

Hi Luke, great article.
Henrya raised an interesting point that Mike Ashely could be made to change his mind.
Question: would the offer to 'sell' not be induced to stop the pressure on his other empire (Sports Direct) - and we will muddle along with the London management (inc. Chris Houghton) until the January window. The PR machine would then leak rumours of 'sorry, wanted to sell, but there are no buyers' (because of the fear of rowdy fans).

Food for thought - as I`m overseas we only get the news via Sky who should hang their heads in shame at the coverage.

Posted by: zulu  | September 16, 2008 11:50 AM

Admiral Colly wrote...

Luke,
Another great column.
Now that MA has put the "for Sale" signs up at SJP, it's difficult to see who would want to come and do the coach's job. Bizarre as it may seem, this may be the only way for KK to rturn. There has been much speculation about KK's contract terms, to the effect that he may owe MA (or NUFC) £2m for breach of contract. Maybe a compromise would now be that KK returns for the rest of the season while MA finds a willing buyer. With MA saying he will no longer stand behind his pledge to put £20m per year into the club, we no longer need Wise & Jiminez, as we won't be signing new players. I know it's a long shot, and not the long term solution, but I fear for results in the short term, and only KK may be able to prevent an exodus of players in January.

Posted by: Admiral Colly  | September 16, 2008 12:09 PM

Sean wrote...

I'm dissapointed to say this, but i'm of the opinion now that the last people that an owner of NUFC should listen to are the fans. We need to get real, people of Newcastle need to get out more and realise there is more to life than gathering outside Shearer's bar to get there faces on sky sports news and cry that their life is over " bring back keegan man, wa ganna gan mental if ee doesnt "...pathetic!! Mike Ashley is a decent, intelligent bloke as far as i can see, who is at last bringing a sense of perspective to the club, all of these idiot fans are just deluded, get out see the world, broaden your mind, then come back and just get to grips with reality and the fact that the reason we have won nothing for ever, gone through endless managers, turmoil and money is because of 1 thing...the fans!!

Posted by: Sean  | September 16, 2008 1:07 PM

tommynackajima wrote...

How could a successful business man get it so wrong?Had he no understanding of the Geordie dislike for D Wise,Cockneys and Southerners in general.Had he no understanding of what was going to happen when K K had to answer to D Wise?Was K K only appointed to sell shirts?If Harry Redknap had taken job would he have stayed if D wise was appointed?I think not.

Posted by: tommynackajima  | September 16, 2008 1:23 PM

Restless Native wrote...

Sean - you are clearly so out of touch with the circumstances leading up to the current situation, that I do not believe for one second you are genuinely interested in Newcastle. In which case, why are you wasting your energy contributing to a Newcastle fans forum? That's what I call PATHETIC.

Jog on. [As they probably say in your neck of the woods.]

Posted by: Restless Native  | September 16, 2008 2:10 PM

Restless Native wrote...

Tommynackajima - don't come on here spouting your idiotic, xenophobic crap and claim to be speaking for all 'Geordies'.

I am a Geordie. And I don't hate cockneys, or southerners. I'm married to a Bristol girl, I live in the South West, and I've got mates from all over the country, including loads from London. And I'm still a fiercely proud Geordie.

One of the things I'm most proud of, as a TRUE Geordie, is how we are known for our friendliness towards others, no matter where they're from. I just don't recognise the southern-hating image of Geordies you and your like are trying to paint at the moment.

Don't get me wrong. I hate Mike Ashley. And I hate Dennis Wise. But that's because I think they're dickheads. It's got absolutely nothing to do with where they're from.

Did you hate Rob Lee? Did you hate Les Ferdinand? Think, man.

Posted by: Restless Native  | September 16, 2008 2:24 PM

M. Sebastian T. wrote...

Toon fans should not expect any solution soon because it is a chicken and egg situation. Ashley cannot find a buyer until he has a manager who is sorting things out. At the same time nobody (decent that is) will want to come until Ashley is gone!

People will ideas that KK could return are undoubtedly indulging in wishful thinking. KK is probably very relieved to be out of it and will never want to even hear the name NUFC.

Most immediately of course there is the small matter of the downward spiral of team performances. If they continue to play like the last 2 games Toon will slump to the bottom of the league within a couple of weeks. Relegation is not an impossible end result of the fiasco.

Posted by: M. Sebastian T.  | September 16, 2008 5:46 PM

Restless Native wrote...

A few interesting developments since the publication of Big Fat Mike's statement.

(1) The Police have denied that they issued any advice to Big Fat Mike suggesting that he, or anyone associated with him, risked being assaulted if they attended a match.

(2) Absolutely nobody seems to have any recollection of seeing Big Fat Mike's children accompany him to a game.

(3) Big Fat Mike is indeed now trying to acively sell the club ... but for £450m - ALMOST TWICE WHAT HE'S CLAIMED TO HAVE INVESTED IN IT.

Still feel like giving him a second chance? Or the benefit of the doubt? You must be joking. The sooner he's gone, the better for all of us.

ASHLEY OUT.

Posted by: Restless Native  | September 16, 2008 8:51 PM

RAY WILSON wrote...

Hi Luke. Interesting to read Freddie Shephards version regarding the clubs financial state-as a supporter -life long at that do you think there is any one at the club who can clarify 1- Is the stadium now paid for ? 2-what is the exact amount of money we are still supposed to owe on previous transfer deals. I am aware that premiership membership gives us millions of pounds per season in T.V. fees and also a lot of supporters have taken the option of buying their season ticket for the next three years. We also get huge attendances compared with the rest of the premiership apart from Arsenal and Man U.who have larger stadiums so many other premiership teams must lag some way behind us in turnover. It would be nice if some one from the club senior management team cared enough to meet our local journalists from time to time and at least explain the true facts. The current crop will probably say its none of our business. Sadly thats where they have all misjudged us as Newcastle supporters-we need to know how the club is performing financially as it answers a lot of questions from our perspective. Mike Ashley somewhat clouded the issue by referring everthing as club debt -while Freddie Shephard made things a little clearer -but it would be helpful if we were aware of what debts and amounts are still outstanding-When Ashley said in his statement he would be clearing further millions of pounds off our club debts in the next few months I presume as part of previous transfer deals he would have to do that any way as lots of transfers are set up on the never never and cash is not always paid up front -so he would have had to make those payments any way -and not seemingly out of the goodness of his heart -which he seemed to be suggesting in his statement over last week end. I wonder if Mike has ever heard of the term "open management" We could do with some coming out of St. James Park.

Posted by: RAY WILSON  | September 16, 2008 10:25 PM

Andrew from Perth wrote...

Lies, lies and more lies. Ahsley lies that he has the interests of NUFC at heart. Then why the 481 million pound price tag. I don't blame the man wanting to make a profit, but that is ridiculous! Every cent paid from whoever buys this club puts into lining that bastards pockets, comes straight out of the next transfer kitty etc. Don't be blinded by his pathetic, whimpering letters people. It's just more lies. I feel sorry for your kids too (because their father is a fraud), but I can't remember them ever coming to the games??
Also, don't let him off the hook Luke. He is ultimately responsible for the actions of the men he hired. He backed them, not KK. Only a fool would do that in Newcastle.

Posted by: Andrew from Perth  | September 17, 2008 10:54 AM

PAUL C wrote...

£481M. So your not in it for the money then Mr Ashley. Your aving a tin bath (as ur mates would put it). I would just say greedy fat b*****d. Who in their right mind will be interested for that price. No quick fire sale. No bloody wonder. Seems like were stuck with each other!

Posted by: PAUL C  | September 17, 2008 1:03 PM

pupupin wrote...

First everyone is making a mistake with the price 265pounds. =480 dollars
out of the uk business is done in dollars.
265pounds is around what Ashley paid.

If Ashley bought the club with loans based on his assets, as all businessmen do.
He could be in trouble and so could Newcastle utd.
His Sports Direct was worth 2.5billion when Ashley bought Newcastle. It is today after one year only worth 450m.
I think his banker maybe getting ready to jump out the window

Posted by: pupupin  | September 17, 2008 5:09 PM

Brian Moorhead wrote...

It amazes me how Ashley ever got to be so rich, he is negotiating with arabs or the sale of the club. They make an offer for just below what you paid, and quite frankly I think that was reasonable.
Now this where he shows a complete lack of the most basic understanding of the arab culture and business in general if you ask me. They haggle for everything, this happens all the time over there. You put a stupid high price on it (480mill, LOL)they make a stupid low offer,then you sit down and agree the real price that it is worth.
What does Ashley do? snubs them and their meeting, another no no over there, and goes on the hoy with the lads. He has offended them, which leaves a situation where they may make another offer but his chances of getting them to the table again are slim at best.
This is yet more fuel for the tabloid idiots and the laughing hords of mancs and cockneys out there.
Then just when you thought it could get no worse you see that O'leary is in the frame to step in as coach. Why do you think he has been out of work for three years? because he was one of the main architects of the Leeds implosion, can't stand their supporters but they didn't deserve that.
All we need now is Ridesdale as chairman and division 2 here we come, with the obligatory 30 point deficit. not to mention the ground sharing with Gateshead when the stadium is repo'd and sold off to Tesco.

Posted by: Brian Moorhead  | September 17, 2008 10:43 PM

ronnie lambert wrote...

Actually men, I saw a couple of kids with him only once, a little boy and a long blonde-haired little girl at a home game on telly.

Posted by: ronnie lambert  | September 17, 2008 11:47 PM