Benítez and Newcastle players expect Ashley to spend in January window

• Newcastle owner meets manager and players for informal talks
• Ashley believed to have offered bonuses for avoiding relegation

Rafael Benítez and his Newcastle United players left their night out with Mike Ashley at an Italian restaurant in Northumberland with the clear impression that the club’s owner intends to reinforce an understrength squad in January.

On Wednesday Ashley, Benítez, senior staff and first-team players spent three hours and 20 minutes eating and chatting together in what has been described as a “break-the-ice” charm offensive. The players are believed to have spoken warmly of the controversial owner afterwards.

Continue reading...