North-East sport reporter Luke Edwards published a story claiming Newcastle's owner Mike Ashley was willing to listen to offers for the club. In repost, Newcastle released this statement questioning the accuracy of the story, saying that is was:
"Wholly inaccurate and written with the intention of unsettling the Club, players and its supporters. "This is disgraceful journalism for which the Club and its supporters should receive a full and unreserved apology from those concerned. "For the avoidance of doubt, this means that for the remainder of this season and AT LEAST until the end of next season, Mike Ashley will not, under any circumstances, sell Newcastle United at any price. "The Club cannot be stronger in stating its position on this matter."
Any employe of the newspaper was immediately banned from attending Newcastle matches or press conferences.
