Alan Shearer has claimed that he has been really impressed by the way in which Newcastle United’s new owners have begun their reign as stewards of the club.
The former England striker got his, and the club’s supporters’, wish when PIF completed their purchase back in October, signalling an end to Mike Ashley’s torrid reign as owner.
14 years of no communication, no investment and no passion were brought to an abrupt end and the new owners have already made a conscious effort to address each of those former shortcomings.
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Shearer’s support of his boyhood club has never waned despite the treatment he received from Ashley and his peers during their time at the club.
He has been very vocal in his admiration for the way Amanda Staveley has made decisions in the last couple of months.
In an interview with Michael Bridges for Optus Sport, he said: “The owners are talking up the football club, the communication has been so much better.
“Everyone wanted the takeover to happen, it had to happen and they’ve said they want to try and compete within three to five years which is a huge statement and one that we all hope comes true.
“For far too long, there’s been no investment in the club so hopefully bigger and better things are to come.”
While results on the pitch are yet to show the vast improvement that will be needed to keep Newcastle in the Premier League, there is a buzz around the club, and the city.
The departure of Ashley and co feels like a great weight has been lifted from the shoulders of the Toon Army.
“There’s a huge relief in the city that they’ve got their club back because, for far too long, there was no communication,” said Shearer.
“There wasn’t anything to look forward to, certainly in cup competitions, it’s been a tough 13 or 14 years and that’s why there’s so much relief and happiness in what’s happened.”
Although, that relief will soon be pegged back if Eddie Howe is unable to steer Newcastle out of the relegation zone between now and the end of the season.
Shearer has been impressed by what he has seen from the former Bournemouth head coach but, like many, believes the club’s Premier League status rests on the quality of acquisitions in the January transfer window.
“It’s going to be very difficult, they’ve really struggled defensively, conceding too many goals with the worst defence in the Premier League,” he claimed.
“I think the answer to that is that it all depends on the next three weeks and who they sign.
“[The owners] have said they’re going go out and sign and spend money so let’s wait and see but they’re going to have to get four or five [players] minimum in if they want to avoid relegation.”
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