No Joy For Ashley In Dubai!

Ashley indicated he wants a return on his investment - so that could mean it is some time before a buyer is found and the club can return to normal - because interested parties are said to be waiting for him to crack and put the club in the 'cart boot sale'.

It is understood that Ashley has been trying to contact Amanda Staveley, the investment adviser who runs PCP Capital Partners and has the best financial contacts in the Middle East.

Staveley helped Abu Dhabi United in their takeover of Manchester City and is also working with Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on his possible personal venture to buy Liverpool.