Newcastle United are struggling for form this season as they sit joint-bottom of the Premier League without a single win from their opening 10 matches.
The pressure on Rafael Benitez has increased significantly and the squad is crying out for further investment in the January transfer window, although the track record of Mike Ashley does not look positive.
Ashley, still intent on selling the Magpies, has consistently refused to back Benitez in the transfer market and fans fear the situation will be the same in the New Year – and his latest business venture has pushed many over the ledge.
Sports Direct, owned by Ashley, have now purchased Evans Cycles to add to his portfolio and fans are furious as it is money being spent elsewhere and not on the club, which is in major need of a cash injection.
We have gathered some of the best reactions below.
Mike Ashley needs to stop buying high street companies. I am now boycotting so many shops, if I am not careful I am going to have to become self sufficient.
— Ian Summers (@iansumm03608301) October 31, 2018
What the hell is he playing at! I hope he’s done that because of a sale deal he’s done for our club
— Stottie GTTO (@aconda_ann) October 30, 2018
Mike Ashley has bought Evans Cycles out of administration, so if you’re in the market for a new bike anytime soon, you know where not to go. #WATP
— Paul (@HamptonCaught) October 30, 2018
Mike Ashley has just bought another chain of shops 🧐🧐🧐 good to see he has money now pull your finger out and sign some players in January #ashleyout
— jake le-carpenter (@jakelecarpenter) October 30, 2018
Mike Ashley's on his bike…shame it's not out of #NUFC
— Ali Speight (@ALSP8) October 30, 2018
Mike Ashley has been spending again (not on NUFC obvs). Sports Direct has just bought Evans Cycles out of administration.
— Gemma Goldfingle (@gemmagoldfingle) October 30, 2018