To say that Mike Ashley has gone from hero to villain over the last decade would be something of an understatement, and it seems a distant memory that the British businessman was seen in the away crowds with the Toon Army, now choosing to remain away from St James’ Park, breaking his hiatus for the first time in over a year to watch the 2-0 defeat to Leicester City.
Now though, there is renewed talk of a potential takeover, with Middle Eastern newspaper the Express claiming on their website that former Manchester United and Chelsea chief Peter Kenyon is hopeful of launching a bid, with Ashley having put the club on the market this time last year.
However, the report is not full of hope, with Kenyon said to be in the process of sorting funds, while it is also stated that any sort of approach from the British businessman or other interested parties is likely to be delayed as a result of the club’s current struggles on the pitch, the Magpies sitting 18th in the Premier League without a win to their name this season.
If hopes of a takeover rest on how the side are performing, then the dreams of the Newcastle fans rest in the hands of one man and one man only – Rafael Benitez.
The Spanish manager would join the Newcastle fans in being happy to see the back of Ashley but right now he needs to turn the club’s form around, or face being stuck with the tight-fisted owner for some time yet.
First things first, the Magpies need a win and some points under their belt, and if they can get momentum behind them, then a move up the top flight table could well be on the cards.
Once that happens, then perhaps investors will be more open to spending their money on a takeover – the dream scenario for fans – but for as long as the struggles continue, the toxic marriage with Ashley will continue.