Ashley At Last Finds His Voice

Last updated : 26 February 2014 By Footy Mad - Editor



Club directors Lee Charnley and John Irving were among those to face questioning from various groups on Monday.

Among the subjects offered up for discussion was the Magpies' January transfer business, with the decision taken to offload influential midfielder Cabaye to Paris St Germain despite having no replacement lined up.

Asked if the North East outfit could simply have blocked Cabaye's efforts to force through a switch, the minutes of Monday's meeting - as reported in the Evening Chronicle - read: "The board repeated that the player was adamant he wanted to leave.

"The board also explained that the player could not be sure the opportunity to join PSG would be available at a later date and he therefore wanted to take it.

"The club's preference was to keep the player and for him to remain at the club long term."

Newcastle representatives also claim that efforts were made to cover the loss of Cabaye, with a 'substantial bid' tabled for one top target - believed to be Lyon's Clement Grenier.

The minutes read: "The board suggested that if it was to be self-critical, it should have had a young player who could naturally step into the squad as it aims to in all positions.

"In respect of the transfer, the board explained that the club did not want to sell the player. However, the player was adamant he wanted to leave.

"The club made a substantial bid for a replacement but an agreement could not be reached with the prospective selling club. The club also pursued other options but particular clubs were unwilling to sell.

"The board explained that the January window is disruptive for clubs and that there are far more options available to it in the summer window."