So in a rather bizarre few days really of activity we get words of wisdom from Mike Ashley, fleeting appearances of Keegan’s ex hair-do from Coloccini and seemingly some tremor’s in the transfer market.

In a one off interview Ashley revealed he did no due-dilligence before purchasing NUFC from the hands of the Halls and Shepherd. He also gave an insight into how badly managed the club was having taken advanced monies from sponsorship deals and buying players on the never, never for which we still owe £27 million. This even after ‘Flash Ash’ pummelled £100 million in to pay off debts. It certainly seems as though the club on a financial side of things even after just a year on is starting to get a bit of direction.

Ashley also called Newcastle United as a ‘jewel’ and that he has no regrets about rushing into buying the club. He looked upon NUFC as too much of an opportunity to miss out on.

Perhaps this debt gives us some indication as to why we are being a bit more prudent in the transfer market. In all honesty it seems for the first time we are buying the right players rather than trophy signings. They I would imagine will eventually come in the future years.

We are still awaiting official unveiling of Coloccini but with Ashley having wore his name on his back and trained the odd time with the squad it would be a surprise if he weren’t already signed. Still it would be nice for us Geordies to have something to cheer about.

We are being heavily linked with Tiago from Juventus. The former playmaker from the Special One’s Chelsea days showed great glimpses in his time in the Premier League with Mr.Mourinho stating he regretted not getting the most out of Tiago in his time at Chelsea. Certainly a loan deal with a view to a permanent move for £8 million would be a great way to test the water – we just need to persuade Tiago that’s all… Good to at last see us linked with a play-maker though.

The Stephen Warnock links keep coming back in which Paul Ince stated no further player would be leaving. Warnock also had to deny he handed in a transfer request after NUFC turned his head sufficiently – that doesn’t count for anything these days though. We’ve already bid twice for the lad but expect him wearing a Toon top by the 1st of September. He is an extremely underrated English player and will give great competition at left back.

We are also being linked to 2 mysterious players at Real Mallorca again. Certainly one or two showed glimpses of great technical ability and a will to play.

Now with the outgoings…

At last it looks like the Hoekey Coekey himself Mr. Ameobi is on his way out the door with a deal being agreed with Ipswich town and a medical on the cards today. Hopefully that will free up some funds for KK to go get a replacement.

It’s also rumoured that Everton are looking to push through a deal for Alan Smith. It would be alright if we go and spend to replace with the right players.

Aston Villa are rumoured to be back in for James Milner yet again. This time £9 million. If that is the case everyone knows my opinion unless KK thinks he can change his final ball.

So in a nutshell we’ve had it all in the lead up to the opening game against the Manure including a public training session. But are you happy with the direction the club is going? As Jose Mourinho said, “Newcastle are a great club with great supporters and great players but time and time again they underachieve”.

Date: Aug 14th, 2008 · Comments RSS · Tags: Managers · Matches · Owners · Players