Toon Fans Get Their Wish ... Ashley Puts NUFC Up For Sale!

Ashley and his executive director Dennis Wise - had they been MAN enough to go to St James' Park on Saturday - would have faced a furious backlash from supporters who want to see the pair pack up and get out of the club.

Thousands staged demonstrations outside St James' Park before and after the embarrassing 2-1 defeat by Hull, demanding that Ashley sell up and that Wise be removed from his post.

Ashley revealed that he is ready to listen to offers.

In a lengthy statement, Ashley said: "I am not stupid and have listened to the fans.

"Therefore, I am no longer prepared to subsidise Newcastle United.

"I am putting the club up for sale. I hope that the fans get what they want and that the next owner is someone who can lavish the amount of money on the club that the fans want."

There have been rumours since Ashley arrived on Tyneside that he would look to move the club on quickly, and several potential buyers have been circling for some time.