Team up to help out the black-and-whites

CRISTIANO Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford last Saturday with his swashbuckling style and mercurial magic and saw Man U go top, while the Magpies nosedived to second bottom with only one point!

Again there’s the red light of relegation, and United is like a sinking ship with a novice crew where the lifeboat would see Steve Bruce set sail and be replaced by an experienced captain.

Ashley has no knowledge of football or how to invest in new players, and is only a selfseeking money-making magnate with Sports Direct and associated companies.

His PR and advertising skills are illustrated by free and worldwide TV match coverage, and with advertising hoardings strategically placed around St James’ Park – and on the roof!

However, he may be losing his retail touch illustrated by last week’s sad closure of the House of Fraser, formerly his flagship store in the Metrocentre.

What can be done to give Newcastle United the kiss of life?

I suggest the directors of a select number of local companies from The Journal’s top 200 list meet Ashley around the table and attempt to agree an input of cash for transfer deals etc.

They could receive a shared income from Ashley’s TV monies and in return give much-needed business expertise applied to football.

Possible companies to be approached include Nissan, Arriva, Go-ahead Group, Sage, Northumberland Water, Northern Powergrid, Vertu Motors, Bellway, Persimmon Homes, Fenwick and Barrett’s.

Also, self-sufficient and legendary stars from regional sport and entertainment may also wish to give support including Sir Brendan Foster,

Sir Graham Wylie, Alan Shearer, Jimmy Nail, Robson Green, Malcolm Macdonald,

Alexander Armstrong, Brian Johnson, Joe Mcelderry, Jonathan Edwards, Sting, Sam Fender, Kevin Whately and Duncan Bannatyne. CHRIS ROBINSON, Gosforth

Does Mike Ashley need some help at Newcastle United?