THRILLED Newcastle fans were singing, dancing and drinking outside St James’ Park after seeing Mike Ashley finally sell the club.
The Magpies have been taken over by mega-rich Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, who will own 80 per cent of the North East outfit.
The deal brings an end to Ashley’s 14-year spell as owner of Newcastle, much of which has been clouded by opposition from fans.
And the supporters showed how they felt about the takeover immediately after it was confirmed by partying outside the stadium.
The takeover means Newcastle now have the richest owners in world football as they are worth a reported £320billion.
But while Ashley’s controversial reign is now over, attention will turn to Saudi Arabia’s ‘dire’ human rights record.
Gary Lineker tweeted: “Football fans want their clubs to succeed, but at what price? The dilemma facing NUFC supporters.”
Amnesty International today urged the Premier League to ‘overhaul their standards’ regarding human rights.
But Amanda Staveley, who has spearheaded the Saudi takeover and will own 10 per cent of the club herself, is excited about what the future holds.
She said: “This is a long-term investment. We are excited about the future prospects for Newcastle United.
“We intend to instill a united philosophy across the Club, establish a clear purpose, and help provide leadership that will allow Newcastle United to go on to big achievements over the long term.
“Our ambition is aligned with the fans – to create a consistently successful team that’s regularly competing for major trophies and generates pride across the globe.”
And club legend Alan Shearer simply tweeted: “Yesssssssss. We can dare to hope again.”
There was immediately speculation surrounding manager Steve Bruce, a man who is increasingly unpopular among large sections of the club’s fans.
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Newcastle currently sit 19th in the Premier League table without a win so far this season.
And some of the jubilant scenes following the takeover were also met with chants aimed at Bruce.
Some supporters gathered to sing: “You’re getting sacked in the morning.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
