Ashley and Rafa meet up for talks

NEWCASTLE United owner Mike Ashley was on Tyneside last night to meet Rafa Benitez and his squad for an Italian meal in Northumberland.

Benitez had last spoken to the Sports Direct magnate during the close season after finishing in the top 10 of the Premier League.

But talks stalled after Benitez was not offered certain assurances over changes at Under-18 and Under-23 level as well as more control over the transfer kitty. Ashley had stayed silent for much of the transfer window and only attended his first game of the season at Crystal Palace before returning to St James’ Park for the 2-0 defeat against Leicester City.

Ashley did not speak to Benitez at Selhurst Park or St James’ at the weekend, but sent Lee Charnley to give him a message regarding a meal and meet-up with the squad.

Toon players were bussed to a restaurant in Northumberland for the meal as they tried to escape the public glare in the city centre.

Ashley spoke with Benitez and the players as he looked to break the ice after a long silence.

The owner has tried to keep an open line to Jamaal Lascelles who he also consulted over the summer during a bonus row. ■■Former Newcastle defender Robbie Elliott has urged the Magpies to attack Manchester United on Saturday.

The Magpies face the possibility of heading into the international break without a win this season, and in usual circumstances a trip to Old Trafford, on the back of such a poor run, would be daunting.

However, Manchester United are without a win in their last four matches and sit in 10th place in the Premier League table.

Elliott was part of Kevin Keegan’s side renowned for their attacking style of play.

Writing on his official Twitter account, Elliott said: “After seeing Man U’s recent performances and lack of confidence and cohesion surely we have to go at them on Saturday and try to win the game. There to be got at!”