Newcastle fans, ex-players 'dare to hope' after Saudi-led takeover

London, Oct 7, 2021 (AFP) - Newcastle United fans and ex-players expressed their joy on Thursday after the Premier League approved a £300-million takeover by a Saudi-led consortium.

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, PCP Capital Partners and RB Sports & Media completed the $408 million deal after passing the league's test to assess the suitability of owners and directors.

Hundreds of jubilant supporters gathered outside the club's St James' Park stadium holding banners and letting off flares to celebrate the end of the 14-year reign of widely disliked owner Mike Ashley.

Newcastle are one of England's best-supported clubs but have not won a major domestic trophy since the 1955 FA Cup.

But the takeover has the Toon faithful dreaming of Newcastle becoming a force in English football again now that it is one of the world's wealthiest clubs.

"Yesssssssss. We can dare to hope again," tweeted Newcastle great Alan Shearer, the Premier League's all-time top-scorer with 260 goals.

"It was a long time in coming but finally the fans have got what they what they deserve. Owners that want to put @NUFC back up where it belongs and have ambitions to challenge at the top table," tweeted former Newcastle and Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given.

"Exciting times ahead for the Toon army."

Ex-Newcastle striker and 2001 Ballon d'Or winner Michael Owen added his voice to those predicting a bright future.

"Such good news for everyone associated with @NUFC. New ownership is exactly what the club needed. Renewed optimism, it could be a game changer for the club," he tweeted.

The Newcastle United Supporters Trust wrote a letter to the new owners expressing their delight with the move.

"For the first time in many years we believe our desire for an ambitious Newcastle United that strives to be the best can be a reality under your ownership," chairman Greg Tomlinson said in the letter, which they tweeted.

"We admire your desire and tenacity to buy our football club despite the protracted issues with the Premier League and we appreciate your clear understanding of the special place Newcastle United holds in our communities."

Currently Magpies midfielder Isaac Hayden toasted the news, encouraging them to celebrate.

"Exciting times for the club and the city of Newcastle. Enjoy your cans #NUFC fans," he wrote on Twitter.

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