18 Sep 2008Whelan claims Ashley deserves stick

Football Referees, Players, Managers and Media

Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has claimed that Newcastle owner Mike Ashley deserves the criticism he has been receiving recently from the club's fans.

Ashley and executive director (football) Dennis Wise were the subject of angry and prolonged demonstrations before, during and after the defeat to Hull at St James' Park last weekend.

The Geordie faithful are furious after Kevin Keegan walked away following a dispute over transfer policies and Ashley has admitted this week that he will sell the club for the right price.

However, Whelan has twisted the knife by saying: "The fans up there eat, breathe and live for one thing, and that is Newcastle United.

"Unless you put your whole heart into it, are a 100 per cent Geordie and are backing them, they will give you some stick. He has got it, and he deserves it."

Whelan explained that despite Ashley's undoubted skill as a retailer, he is incapable of managing a club the size of Newcastle, not to mention the fact that he is a Tottenham fan.

He also laughed off suggestions that Wigan boss Steve Bruce, himself a Geordie, is being lined up to take over from Keegan.

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