Ashley’s world of delusion

MIKE ASHLEY has few equals in football when it comes to shooting himself in the foot.

Laughing at protesting Newcastle fans was a dumb move on his first visit to St James’ Park for 16 months.

He was quickly embroiled in more controversy when supporters chanting “Where’s the money gone?” allege he gave them a sly V-sign after a clear-the-air meeting with manager Rafa Benitez and his squad.

Ashley (top) insists he was scratching his ear. Few on Tyneside believed him.

They have never forgotten the damning indictment delivered on his regime a decade ago at Kevin Keegan’s tribunal victory over the club.

“The club admitted that it repeatedly and intentionally misled the press, public and the fans of Newcastle.”

That’s why Ashley’s pledge to keep Benitez (above) as manager and provide him with funds in January isn’t believed.

His risible offer to take the players on holiday if they escape relegation shows how low he has set the bar.

Ashley is deluded if he thinks a holiday offer can persuade a bunch of multi-millionaires to somehow up their game.

The Magpie Group, leading the fans’ revolt, have many questions for him – not just obvious ones about lack of investment and another relegation battle.

They ask: Why is the Magpies’ training ground rated one of the worst in the Premier League?

Why does their academy consistently fail to produce quality first-team players? Why is the future of coach Peter Beardsley, suspended since January on allegations of bullying and racism, still undecided? What’s happening with the HMRC probe into alleged tax irregularities relating to half-a-billion pounds’ worth of Newcastle transfers?

Ashley provides no answers. His 11 years on Tyneside have spiralled into an ugly cocktail of discord, despair and division. Now a third relegation in 10 years looms if there isn’t a drastic change of direction at the club or a new owner found.

If that doesn’t happen, Rafa will soon take a very long holiday of his own.