Alan Shearer’s take on Newcastle United takeover situation
By Roy Emanuel
The legend’s view on the future ahead.
On the pitch, the new year has started in a positive manner for Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez after Monday’s win at Stoke City. Off the pitch, questions still remain in regards to a new ownership group taking control of the club from Mike Ashley.
Alan Shearer is certainly someone with a strong opinion on the subject, and believes that Ashley must go for the Magpies to eventually find success. In a report on Monday, Newcastle’s all-time leading goalscorer focused on several different areas that are affected by the current climate around St. James’ Park.
When asked about the takeover, Shearer emphasised the need for a deal to be reached as soon as possible.
“That’s what everyone hopes and if you’re a Newcastle fan, that is what needs to happen because this has been dragging on for a while now. Mike Ashley has made it clear he wants to sell and doesn’t want to be at Newcastle, so the sooner it happens the better for everyone connected to Newcastle.”
United put themselves in a much better position in the table thanks to their result against the Potters, but will surely be locked in a relegation battle. To help avoid another drop to the Championship, Shearer pointed out the importance of the January transfer period.
“There’s no doubt about it, Mike Ashley needs to go and a new owner needs to come in and give funds to Rafa Benitez to spend in January.”
The squad
Ultimately, most supporters knew that the current term was not going to be easy. Few changes were made over the summer, and the competition in the Premier League is fierce.
These difficulties were not unexpected. However, Shearer feels that the only way to find a resolution is by bringing the team reinforcements.
“I always expected it to be a long, hard season. That is what it is turning out to be, so Benitez needs to get players in in January.”
It all may sound a bit obvious in some respects, but the club need to be able to have the power to move forward. With Mike Ashley ready to depart, PCP Capital Partners and Amanda Staveley must advance talks quickly to keep Newcastle’s place in the top flight alive.
Next: Alan Shearer's top five goals for Newcastle United
Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez want improvements to continue in the North East. To make that a reality, a way to start a new chapter must be found immediately.