Source: SKY_Sports
Ashley wants Newcastle sale
Mike Ashley has revealed he is looking to sell Newcastle as soon as possible following the club's relegation to the Championship.[LNB] The Magpies owner apologised this week for the mistakes he had made during both the 2008/9 campaign and previous seasons.[LNB]He is now keen to offload the club and recoup some of his massive investment, although he accepts he is facing a significant loss.[LNB]"It has been catastrophic for everybody," Ashley told the Sunday Times. [LNB]"I've lost my money and I've made terrible decisions. Now I want to sell it as soon as I can ... advisers will be appointed shortly."[LNB]Ashley admits he was wrong to buy a 100 per cent stake in Newcastle in 2007, saying: "Of course I regret it. I never said I was an expert in football clubs. [LNB]"I was just a fan - although a very wealthy fan. But I'm not so wealthy now. I put my money into it and I tried my best. [LNB]Woefully short"But I accept my best was woefully short. I am genuinely sorry for everybody about what has happened."[LNB]Ashley had sought a buyer last year when he was criticised by supporters in the wake of Kevin Keegan's departure from St James' Park.[LNB]Keith Harris, chairman of investment bank Seymour Pierce, scoured the world looking for buyers after being asked to do so by Ashley.[LNB]None of the interested parties came up with an acceptable deal and Ashley opted to put a hold on his plans to sell.[LNB]However, it is understood that Harris could now be in talks with a new group after travelling to the North East earlier this week.[LNB]
