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:
A message from the Football Clubs Editor
Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Newcastle United coverage 365 days a year.
This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription; sign up here.
Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor
9. Fifth-placed finish - signs one player
Despite the sale of another favourite in Jose Enrique, things finally looked to be on the up as 2011/12 saw United record their best-ever finish under Ashley and secure European football. However, Ashley was in no mood to build on the club’s success and sanctioned just one new signing - Vurnon Anita - the following summer. That led to another relegation battle… Photo: Gareth Copley
10. The Sports Direct Arena
United’s home, forever known as St James’s Park, was officially changed to the Sports Direct Arena (@ St James’s Park) in a bid to ‘"showcase sponsorship opportunities’ involving the naming rights. Controversial payday loan company Wonga bought the rights and returned it to its rightful name. Photo: GRAHAM STUART
11. Alan Pardew’s eight-year contract
The then-PFA Manager of the Year was incredibly handed an EIGHT-year deal in 2012, though it’s safe to say he didn’t see out his contract. Since leaving St James’s Park in January 2015, the 58-year-old has managed three different clubs, whereas Newcastle have had four other bosses. Photo: Jan Kruger
12. Joe Kinnear… part two
Ben Afri, Yohan Kebab, Sissy, Shola Amamobi, Galteirez and Derek Llambezee. You know the drill. Kinnear also promised supporters no players would leave Newcastle in January 2014… weeks later, Yohan Cabaye joined Paris Saint-Germain. Ah, and there’s Shane Ferguson... Photo: Clive Mason