Time for owner to choose his path

May 25 2009 The Journal

MIKE ASHLEY will this morning be starting to weigh up his choices as he once again looks to sell or stay with the club.

With his previous indecision condemning the club to its worst season in the Premiership, Mr Ashley will have to offer guaranteed backing, and money, next season or cut his losses now.

He may have to take a hit if he does opt for a sale, with the controversial owner likely to see a big loss on the money he has shelled out.

Some business analysts have priced the club as low as £120m, with any potential buyer having to take into account the £248m the club owes Ashley.

And either Mr Ashley or a new owner will have to look at the wage bill, which will be seemingly incompatible with a season in the Championship.

Players will have to leave, Ashley will know, if the club is to have funds available to invest in a new squad.

Mr Ashley will have the words of former Newcastle chairman Sir John Hall who yesterday warned United are far from certain to bounce back.

Speaking before the catastrophic defeat to Aston Villa, Sir John said: “If they go down, it might take them two or three years to rebuild the team and get out of the Championship.

“But the club is too strong to be in Leeds (United’s) situation.”

Sir John said he also hopes Alan Shearer, whose short-term contract expired after the game, will remain in charge next season.

He said: “I have the utmost regard for Alan Shearer. If ever there is a dedicated professional, it’s Alan Shearer. I hope he stays.

“He will be welcomed by all the fans and everyone will rally round him.”