Rio Ferdinand has made it clear that Newcastle United surviving relegation this season would mean ‘more competition’ for the Premier League in the coming years, as he told Vibe with Five.
It was put to Ferdinand by Man United fan and Stretford Paddock host, Stephen Howson, that if Newcastle are in the PL next season, added with their investment, then you couldn’t decide between the two sides as to who has more of a chance of winning the title next.
Newcastle are the richest club in world football and their long-term plan is to shoot straight to the top of England’s top-flight.
As they showed in January, they have the money to splash the cash, it’s just a case of how quick will it take for them to compete at the top?
For some, they could probably do it as soon as they survive, but for others, it will probably take years and years given the quality in front of them.
Either way, when the following point was made to Ferdinand, he made it clear that he wants Newcastle competing at the top.
“If I asked you know, who wins the league first,” said Howson. “Man United or Newcastle, with the investment that is about to come down the pipe? I don’t think you can answer that question.”
Ferdinand responded: “I want to see them do well. The more competition, it adds to it. We always moan about other leagues and we say ‘that’s why our league is the best league because of the competition’. Any team on any given day can beat anyone.
“The more teams with resources, the more teams with quality in them, the better for this league, surely? You can’t think of it selfishly, just for Man United.”
During the January transfer window, many questioned how much pull the Magpies would have given their situation.
But with the likes of Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes signed up, they have proven that the puling power is there.
However, before the fans can dream of that, they have to maintain their top-flight status.
Eddie Howe has done a remarkable job since replacing Steve Bruce and his side are unbeaten in the league since December, including beating Brentford last time out.
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