‘We can make the cup a priority this season’

MIKE Ashley has said Newcastle United have changed their policy on the domestic cups after returning to the Premier League.

In recent years, managing director Lee Charnley has made it clear that the club can’t afford to take chances by playing their strongest team in the FA Cup and League Cup.

That proved to be the case when managers like Chris Hughton, Alan Pardew and John Carver were forced to play reserve teams in the competitions in order to keep the club in the Premier League.

But Ashley, speaking to Sky Sports, said: “I get fans saying I’m not interested in winning a cup.

“It’s about priorities, I just didn’t want to lie to the fans.

“I don’t want to turn out and turn to the fans when we are playing nine reserves and pretend we were doing anything other than making the Premier League a priority.

“I actually now believe that Newcastle will look to make mid-table this season and maybe we can make the cup a priority this season.

“We can get ourselves safe and then go for a cup.

“It means that in my few years at Newcastle United I might be able to win something other than a Championship trophy.”

When asked what it would mean to win something, he said: “I like the cup...the dream would be the Champions League.

“That’s what it is for me, simple.” Still on hand to make a couple of important stops including a fine block to deny Kane. The former Sunderland player was a willing runner going forward and provided a couple of good crosses. Had to adjust early in the game after Dummett’s injury but did well at left-back. Looked comfortable enough until Kane issued a ‘welcome to the Premier League’-style challenge. Barely had time to settle before being taken off. Lumbered with further defensive duties after Shelvey red card. Still managed 54 touches on a day United had just 27% of the ball. Contributed a few important interceptions and Shelvey dismissal will keep him in the team Wasn’t his influential self before his moment of madness. A bad start to the new season is an understatement. Worked hard down the flank and looked the most likely in a black and white shirt. Made a couple of good bursting runs but his final ball was disappointing. Not at his sharpest but still had a couple of good chances. Will get better and fitter. Jamaal Lascelles ......................... 6

For Dummett, 5. Thumped five clearances away after getting a chance much earlier than expected.

Chancel Mbemba .......................... 6

For Lejeune, 34. Got through his fair share of work with a series of blocks and clearances.

Mikel Merino

For Gayle, 76