Freddie Shepherd furious over naming sponsor
FORMER chairman Freddie Shepherd has criticised Mike Ashley for trying to sell Newcastle United's soul.
The Magpies will listen to companies interested in sponsoring St James's Park, which would have its name changed to incorporate theirs.
It is not a new concept, and one which is widespread in the United States but yet to be adopted by the traditional homes of any leading English football club.
Shepherd revealed he turned down the opportunity after interest from three or four companies including an insurance firm following United's 1997 Stock Market flotation because "there are some things money can't buy".
"I can remember when we had the chance to change the name of the ground when I was chairman," said the businessman, who ran the club from 1996 to 2007. "It was just after flotation and big-name companies were falling over themselves to get involved in football - and back then, Newcastle were right up there with the Manchester Uniteds, Liverpools and Arsenals.
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To be honest Shepherd has got quite a nerve !!! Where has he been for the last few months, whilst Moat was trying to buy the club. Not a squeak.
Why could Moat/Shepherd/Hall etc all join forces and buy the NUFC, even if some of them were sleeping partners.
Ashley needs to be convinced and sell the club.