OPINION
When multi-millionaire businessman Mike Ashley took over Newcastle United as owner back in 2007 there was plenty of optimism from both parties over the impact it could have.
The Toon Army, who had seen their side as mid-table battlers prior to his arrival, no doubt were hoping to see an influx of cash and talent at St James’ Park to help the club push to the next level in the Premier League.
Things have not worked out as planned.
One top five finish and a Europa League campaign are not enough to wipe the memory of two relegations, the first in Ashley’s second season in charge, and a handful more near misses.
Add to that plenty of controversy both on and off the pitch, including the renaming of St James’ Park to try and gain naming rights and the sale of some of their top players, and you can see why the Newcastle faithful are not great fans of Ashley.
With the club up for sale there is always hope he will be out the door but could the Magpies’ confirmed plans to head to China hold a hint as to the future of the club’s ownership?
🌏🏆 Newcastle United – along with @ManCity, @WestHamUtd and @Wolves – will compete for the @premierleague Asia Trophy in China this summer.
Full story: https://t.co/NvoHWn2NHM #NUFC pic.twitter.com/1bVkE5rpIH
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) March 26, 2019
As revealed by former chief Sir John Hall, who Ashley bought out to take control of the Magpies, the Sports Direct supremo had plans of developing a brand in Asia – something which has not been pursued as yet.
He told the Chronicle: “I said ‘why do you want the club?’
“The words from his team were: ‘We want to market the sports goods in the Far East, it would be very helpful if we had a brand in football.'”
With no takeover on the immediate horizon, it seems Ashley is finally pursuing the opportunity to push Newcastle in the likes of China – and it could be a hint to the mid-to-long term future of the Magpies.
If the Magpies can bring him additional revenue then he will surely ramp up the asking price based on their commercial value in Asia, not to mention the fact he is making more money out of the club.
Newcastle fans hoping for a swift Ashley exit might well be disappointed.
