Kieran Maguire: Newcastle have ‘burned bridges’ after board decision confirmed
It is time for Newcastle United and their Premier League contemporaries to “start acting like adults”.
That is the view of finance boffin Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the recent in-fighting among top-flight clubs.
Newcastle, fresh from their recent takeover, have been at the heart of a row regarding inflated related-party sponsorship deals.
There were fears that the Magpies’ owners could bypass FFP by sealing disproportionately lucrative deals using pre-existing business partnerships.
But legislation is set to be voted through that ensures that any new partnerships must represent fair market value.
The Athletic reported on 27 October that Newcastle have been included in the working group that will cooperate on the new legislation.
Maguire insists that the working group is a perfect opportunity to “build bridges” with other Premier League clubs.
“It makes sense and it is a relatively democratic move,” he told Football Insider correspondent Adam Williams.
“If the Premier League didn’t allow Newcastle to be able to voice their concerns, it would appear to be a ganging-up process.
“But one voice cannot dictate and determine the decision. Under Premier League rules, you need 14 clubs to make an agreement.
“Newcastle will use this as a chance to build bridges because I think they burnt bridges at the previous meeting.
“They went there and threatened other clubs on an individual basis. The takeover has taken place and it is not going to un-take place.
“I think this is an opportunity for the clubs to come together and start acting like adults.”
In other news, pundit predicts Newcastle United owners are planning for relegation after what he’s seen.