Newcastle United are “devastated” by their relegation from the Premier League, according to the club’s managing director Lee Charnley. Sunderland’s 3-0 victory at home to Everton confirmed that their north-east neighbours would be playing in the Championship next season, with one game of the Premier League season to go.
In a statement issued shortly after the Sunderland result, Charnley said: “Tonight we are devastated at our relegation from the Premier League, as I know every single person connected to this football club will be. I want to thank all of the fans for the support you have shown for the club you love throughout the season, in spite of this massive disappointment and underachievement.”
Newcastle appointed Rafael Benítez as manager in March to replace Steve McClaren, with the club second from bottom of the table, but despite improved form – the club are unbeaten in their last five games – their inability to win at Aston Villa last weekend, coupled with Sunderland’s remarkable 3-2 comeback win at home to Chelsea, took matters out of their hands.
Charnley added: “Your support throughout has been magnificent, but I want to pay particular thanks for the incredible backing you have given to Rafa and the team during the latter part of the season. Nothing more could be asked of you and I am truly sorry we have not given you the outcome you deserve.
“We know that supporters want to know what the future holds and will want to hear more from us as soon as possible. The process of scrutinising what went wrong and planning for what is to come has already begun. Right now, of course, Rafa and the team must prepare for the final game of the season but after that, please rest assured we will communicate more fully with supporters.”
Newcastle’s host Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday in their final game of the season, before summer preparations begin for the 2016-17 campaign in the Championship, their first outside the top tier since 2009-10.
