When billionaire Ashley completed a takeover of the club in 2007, optimism was high. There was a belief he’d take the Magpies to new heights.
But as we all know, his ownership proved to be a the complete opposite. A disaster, to say the least, as fans endured two relegations to the Championship – and a number of shocking decisions.
Here, we take a look at the 20 most controversial Ashley moments after he packed his bags and sold the club to PCP Partners, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and the Reuben brothers:
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5. 2008/09 Premier League relegation
With Keegan gone, Kinnear recovering and Hughton placed in caretaker charge twice, not even club legend Alan Shearer could save Newcastle United from relegation after 16 consecutive seasons in the top-flight. Ashley wanted out and put the club up for sale. Now, where had we heard that before… Photo: Michael Steele
6. Alan Shearer appointed as Newcastle manager… oh wait
Shearer agreed to stay on as manager and even arranged United’s pre-season schedule ahead of a gruelling Championship campaign. However, Ashley fell silent and Chris Hughton was thrown in at the deep end again. Photo: GRAHAM STUART
7. Sacking Chris Hughton
Hughton was brutally sacked by Ashley after he decided a change was required just six months after the Irishman miraculously led Newcastle back to the Premier League at the first attempt. That was despite the Magpies sitting 11th in the table. Up stepped Alan Pardew… Photo: GRAHAM STUART
8. Selling Andy Carroll to Liverpool
The Gateshead-born striker swore he didn’t want to leave his boyhood club and claimed Derek Llambias forced him to hand in a transfer request. Ashley pocketed £35m from Carroll’s sale to Liverpool and brought in journeyman Shefki Kuqi as his replacement. Photo: Clive Brunskill