Ex-Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton has sensationally claimed that Mike Ashley blocked a potential return to St James’ Park in 2015.
In an interview with The Chronicle, Barton revealed that former United boss Steve McClaren was keen to bring the controversial midfielder back to St James’ Park four years after an acrimonious departure caused by a refusal to sign a new contract and his criticism of the board.
And the 35-year-old, who is currently without a club following a five-month ban for gambling offences, says Ashley flat-out refused to sanction McClaren’s wish to bring him back to Tyneside.
“Steve McClaren wanted me to go back” he said. “That was the year I joined Burnley – he asked me to come back but Mike Ashley said you can have anybody but him!
“It was good to know I made that an impression on him (Ashley) because the feeling is definitely mutual.”
Barton also sympathised with Newcastle supporters who have become equally disillusioned with the manner in which Ashley has steered the club during 11 years as owner.
“The club will not be the club it could be while they’ve got the owner they’ve got. He’s not going to change,” the midfielder added.
“It’s sad but that’s his way of doing things and I feel sorry for the supporters because they do deserve more. It’s a huge football club and it should be in the Premier League – it should never be out of it or even in a position where they’re thinking it might not be.”
