Fans Forum returns after ten months to discuss club issues

NEWCASTLE United fans will hear from the club’s hierarchy for the first time in months next week – with the longawaited Fans Forum set to take place on Wednesday.

Representatives are likely to press the club on some of the biggest issues facing the Magpies – including Rafa Benitez’s future, whether the club is still up for sale and what the future plans for investment are.

The club’s managing director Lee Charnley

is the club’s most senior representative at the forum.

At the last meeting there was also representation from stadium security, ticketing and facilities.

Previously Benitez has been present – although that is unlikely on this occasion with a big game against West Brom to prepare for.

It will be a welcome chance for the club to offer some clarity as they head into a period where several big issues need to be ironed out if the club is to consolidate their recent on-field progress. Since Mike Ashley’s early-season interview, missives from the boardroom have been few and far between. The last Fans Forum was way back in June, when club officials addressed the lack of movement on transfers which was such an issue for Benitez. But with the Magpies currently in the top 10, the mood should be more upbeat than at any point during the campaign. The Fans Forum is made up of 14 supporters representing different parts of the ground and interest groups – and recently brought the NUST back into the fold after a long absence. Although the Forum’s membership changes, they sent an open letter to the hierarchy in 2015 demanding answers about the club’s future from owner Ashley.