With the devastating announcement that Rafa Benitez is leaving Newcastle on the expiration of his contract at the end of June, the club must now make a statement about the takeover speculation.
Mike Ashley was already a derided, unpopular figure with fans, and today’s news has seen the feeling of animosity towards him plummet to new depths.
Only the prospect of new owners could placate many fans, and until that happens some will not return to the club.
Having strung fans along with a month of “no comment” replies to requests for statements on any subject, Ashley and Lee Charnley owe the fans the decency of an answer to comments from the Bin Zayed Group and their bold claims regarding their potential purchase of the club.
Failure for them to acknowledge whether hopes of an imminent sale are genuine or not, is certain to anger fans further, and in doing so, they will be playing a very dangerous game.
In light of the managerial announcement, takeover comment must follow
With Rafa now gone, continued silence over a possible end to Ashley’s reign is likely to see a massive drop in season ticket sales, with renewals currently being sought by the club.
If Ashley is not close to leaving St James’ Park, the supporters have a right to know that fact prior to deciding whether to renew or not.
Fans will be hoping that new owners are around the corner, and that this incredibly short-sighted decision regarding the manager will be Ashley’s last act of any note at the club.
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