Speaking on the ITV Football Show, Jose Enrique has given his verdict on Mike Ashley’s ownership at Newcastle.
The Spaniard of course played for Newcastle under Ashley’s ownership, and he has first-hand experience of working with United’s chairman.
Understandably, Enrique feels sad about the Magpies’ current situation, but he claims that Ashley arrived on Tyneside with good intentions.
“It makes us feel all feel the same, no? I think we all feel the same. I think Mike Ashley, when he arrived, actually it was when they signed me that season. I believe he wanted to spend in the club at the start, he did spend actually, but then in the second season after we were relegated, he actually just stopped.
“I don’t know with the club. Obviously, Rafa Benitez arrived, but I think sacking Rafa Benitez was a massive mistake from the club. Having a manager of that calibre in the team, seeing them now is sad because of the fans and the club and what the club means. It’s a beautiful club.”
While Benitez walked away from Newcastle rather than being sacked, Enrique’s point still stands.
Nobody needs telling for the umpteenth time that Newcastle are in a sad situation, but it’s been over a decade since Enrique says Ashley stopped spending at St James’ Park, and somehow he’s still at the club.
It’s a sorry state of affairs for everyone associated with the club, and results on the pitch have suffered as a result.
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