By Tyne-Talk
December 28 2008

After nearly 5 months on the market and no interest in the club, it would appear that Mike Ashley has realised he is highly unlikely to sell in the current climate. And so today he has released an official statement announcing that he is no longer selling Newcastle United and will instead move the club forward. The Official Statement read;

"I am happy to end the uncertainty fans may have had about the future direction of Newcastle United.

I know just how important that is to you.

I have withdrawn Newcastle United from the market, and for me 2009 will be the year in which we drive the Club forward together.

Even when I haven't been at games I have remained a keen supporter, kicking and heading every ball and cheering the team on TV and being the first to congratulate Joe whenever there's a good result.

When I took the decision to put the Club up for sale in September I made a point of saying two things were very important.

Firstly, any potential buyer would have to show they had the best interests of Newcastle United at heart and had both the commitment and finance to be worthy custodians of such a fine football club before I would even consider doing a deal.

And secondly, I gave you my word that as long as I remain owner, this Club would continue to be run responsibly at all levels. I hope you will accept that I have stood by that pledge."

This statement comes amid rumours that Chris Mort could be returning to the club, but will he be present this afternoon to watch his limited side take on Liverpool??

Official Club Statement - Club Not For Sale

Discussion started by TyneTalk (IP Logged), 28/12/2008 10:48

TyneTalk
28/12/2008 10:48

What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.

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becksa09
28/12/2008 15:55

trying to look at this as a positive - don't care whether or not he comes to the games and acts like a fan - alls i care about is the players we need this month.

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gnd27
28/12/2008 16:03

At least if he has taken the club off the market he may be willing to splash the cash in Jan!

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nathan robinson
28/12/2008 16:04

If he wants 2009 to be the year to drive us forward then that must mean investment in January!

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becksa09
28/12/2008 17:03

Joe really didn't sound so sure that he would have much money in January - but at least its a step in the right direction!

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