Mike Ashley's Newcastle Decision Just Baffling

Newcastle owner Mike Ashley's reluctance to appoint a permanent manager is a baffling one.

Ashley has put the club up for sale and while there has been some interest in the struggling club, there is still no offer on the table.

It's not surprising really when you consider the shambolic state of the Tyneside outfit.

The huge wage bill at St James' Park and question marks hanging over the commitment and desire of many of the squad to return to the Premier League after last season's relegation would certainly be enough to put off the majority of potential investors.

But Ashley certainly hasn't aided the selling process by failing to install a management team.

Ashley, who has been described as a former billionaire, has on the face of it decided to cut his losses with the Magpies and is refusing to invest any more money in the club.

However enough investment to stabilise the club with a permanent manager and coaching team would not only be a good footballing decision, but also a sound business decision as well.

Newcastle would be a far more saleable asset with a good management structure and with Alan Shearer revealing he would be keen to take up the hot-seat, Ashley's hesitation is even more confusing.

It's a safe bet that Newcastle legend Shearer is the fans' choice and the experienced coaching team Shearer would bring with him would help steady the club, not to mention boost season ticket and merchandise sales.

Newcastle with Alan Shearer as manager would most definitely be a more attractive proposition to any potential moneymen, but Ashley can't see it and he seems content to continue with caretaker Chris Hughton at the helm.

However while things off the field look gloomy the Magpies at least regained some dignity with a battling 1-1 draw with West Brom in their Championship opener on Saturday, so maybe all is not yet lost for the Newcastle supremo.