---
title: "Magpies squad and Benitez join owner Mike Ashley for meal"
canonical: "https://readnewcastle.com/2018/10/03/magpies-squad-and-benitez-join-owner-mike-ashley-for-meal/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Ashley Colbourn"
section: "Feature Writers"
published: "2018-10-03T20:41:03Z"
modified: "2018-10-03T20:42:10Z"
---

# Magpies squad and Benitez join owner Mike Ashley for meal

Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has taken club staff and players out for a clear the air meal after a number of recent differences.

[Sky Sports](https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11678/11516659/mike-ashley-takes-rafael-benitez-and-newcastle-united-squad-out-for-dinner) report that the businessman flew into the North East for the meal where he met Benitez for just the fourth time.

Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat to Leicester City was yet again surrounded by protests against the ownership of Ashley, with fans claiming he doesn’t invest enough money into the club to make them a competitive force.

The 54-year-old was at St. James’ Park to bear the brunt of the chants throughout the match and was also at the Magpies’ previous fixture.

![Stu Forster/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readnewcastle.com/readnewcastle/sites/20/2018/10/1042954226.jpg)

The idea to take the staff out was reportedly the idea of managing director Lee Charnley in a bid to address issues of concern from both parties and try to establish a more fruitful working relationship.

Benitez has been critical of Ashley for his lack of spending in the past and is reportedly considering whether he has a future at the club beyond the current campaign.

Ashley would reportedly listen to offers of £300m for the club but would require proof that potential buyers have the funds to take the club forward in order to sell.