As revealed by The Athletic, former Newcastle owner Mike Ashley was in discussions to maintain a ‘small stake’ in the club during takeover talks – but Amanda Staveley was having none of it.
According to the Sports Direct owner, he was in discussions with the Saudi Public Investment Fund back in July 2021, stating that the “PIF had been open” to him maintaining a minority stake in the club. However, Staveley made her position clear and was “was opposed to Mr Ashley’s continued involvement”.
The 57-year-old, who is currently suing Staveley and Ghodoussi for ‘immediate repayment of a £10 million loan made during the takeover’, has also revealed – via recently released court papers – that he received a £17.5million loan repayment prior to his £305million sale.
With Staveley’s rejection of this proposal, it is clear she only has the best intentions for the club moving forwards and wanted a fresh start to rebuild a club that had been ruined by the mismanagement of the former owner.
To have the shadow of Ashley still hanging over the club would have most likely dampened what was such a big revelation for Newcastle fans on that special day back in October.
Love Amanda, thank god that disgusting fat ******* Ashley has gone. I hope he leaves this planet soon. Absolute scum
Ash Hater(Quote)