Danny Murphy shared that he didn’t believe Mike Ashley could turn it around at Newcastle United with just one dinner but that those sort of things do help.
The BBC pundit, regularly seen on Match of the Day or Football Focus, delivered his verdict on the Magpies owner’s reported plans to take the first-team squad and Rafa Benitez out for dinner.
“I don’t know (why Ashley was attending games) but I tell you one thing, so Mr Moores who use to own Liverpool, don’t know if you met him great guy, but he used to integrate himself with the players, for example so one year he put on a special dinner for all the players, their girlfriend or wives, partners, ” said Murphy on talkSPORT (Monday October 1, 11:57am.)
“Chris De Burgh did a live set, instrument set, two hours, everyone was dancing and getting on, we mixed with the hierarchy, people from the board, their wives, their families.
“We were already in a good place but it became the same every year, it was something we generally did and he would come to dinners.
“I’m talking about his dinner (Ashley) he is setting up and it makes a difference.
“I’m not suggesting he is going to turn it around with a dinner but if he did that more then there is more of a togetherness.”
The Daily Mail reported that Ashley was planning a dinner for the Magpies’ squad as well as its manager in order to build relationships after a winless start to the season for the club.
OPINION
Clearly Murphy is using his own experience at Liverpool to suggest that Ashley’s reported plans regarding the Magpies’ squad are positive. However the pundit is quick to point out that the owner has to continue hosting dinners and other similar events, as a one-off meal isn’t going to build a rapport between him and his team. Murphy spoke about Ashley’s plans after talkSPORT host Jim White questioned why the owner was starting to appear at games and show interest, and it is easy to understand why the broadcaster is confused as the businessmen is meant to be willing to sell the Magpies. However while Ashley’s motives aren’t clear or understood, a dinner can’t exactly hurt morale and something needs to be done to see results improve. The Magpies were very disappointing during the 2-0 defeat to Leicester City on Saturday and the mood around St James Park was dire as a result. Hopefully after a nice meal, the Magpies squad will be able to improve on their recent performances and results.
