By DPA,
London : Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley confirmed Sunday that he is no longer seeking to sell the premiership club.
Ashley bought the club in May 2007, but decided to offload it in September after the resignation of manager Kevin Keegan prompted fan protests against him.
He called in the investment bank Seymour Pierce to seek a buyer, but despite reported interest from the Middle East and Nigeria, none emerged.
“When I took the decision to put the club up for sale in September, I made a point of saying two things were very important,” Ashley was quoted as saying on the club website.
“Firstly, any potential buyer would have to show they had the best interests of Newcastle United at heart and had both the commitment and finance to be worthy custodians of such a fine football club before I would even consider doing a deal.”
“And secondly, I gave you my word that as long as I remain owner, this club would continue to be run responsibly at all levels. I hope you will accept that I have stood by that pledge.”