It is that time of the week again when we bring you the latest and greatest news from this week’s events in relation to everything that is Newcastle United.
Ramsdale On His Way To St James’?
Some Exciting news to bring you first as we gear up for the start of the summer transfer window. According to reports from various sources, The Toon are stepping up their pursuit of Arsenal shot-stopper Aron Ramsdale. The Englishman has fallen out of favour at The Emirates Stadium this season with David Raya cementing his place for the first team as Mikel Arteta’s number-one choice.
Ramsdale would be a fine addition to Newcastle United’s squad in my opinion. He is only 26 years old and still has many good years ahead of him and is a proven talent in the Premier League. It also looks very likely he will join up with Gareth Southgate and the England team as when taking a look at the Euro betting markets, Ramsdale is currently 1/8 to be a part of Southgate’s squad.
Pre-Season In Japan
The club has announced via their website that this year’s pre-season tour will take place in Japan. As the club looks to expand into further international markets a decision has been made and Newcastle will now take part in the J League International series this summer.
Manager Eddie Howe stated Eddie Howe said: “We are pleased to be visiting Japan this summer. It’s an amazing country and it will be a unique experience for our players, staff and supporters.
“We will be taking on two strong teams at two special stadiums, and I’m sure they will present the type of physical tests we need at that time as we build towards next season.”
Update: Mike Ashley Denied In Kit Row
You may remember last week we brought you the news that our old owner the ever-popular Mike Ashley was taking the club to court as his retail brand Sports Direct had been denied to right to sell next season’s kit (such a shame). Well, we have an update on this situation and it looks like bad news for Mr Ashley.
In an amusing turn of events, The Court of Appeal has denied Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct permission to appeal a decision regarding the sale of Newcastle United’s 2024/25 season replica kit. Sports Direct, a part of Ashley’s Frasers Group, had sought an injunction against Newcastle United after the club refused to supply the retailer with the upcoming kit, citing an exclusive retail deal with JD Sports.
Sports Direct argued that Newcastle United abused its dominant market position by entering into an exclusive sales arrangement with JD Sports. The retailer claimed it had been a long-term supplier of the club’s replica kits. However, the Premier League club, now owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund since 2021, had decided to limit kit sales to JD Sports, the club itself, and Adidas.
The Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) had previously rejected Sports Direct’s application for interim injunctive relief, leading the retailer to file for an expedited appeal. The Court of Appeal, while recognising that Sports Direct had a serious case, ultimately dismissed the appeal. Sorry Mike doesn’t look like you will be getting anywhere with this one anytime soon … ah well.
