Wednesday 3 October 2018 21:43, UK
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley took Rafael Benitez and his playing squad out for dinner on Wednesday in an attempt to establish a better working relationship.
Ashley arrived in the North East by helicopter, before meeting Benitez for the first time in five months over pizza and pasta in Newcastle.
The gesture is understood to have been initiated by the club's managing director Lee Charnley. It is seen as an opportunity for Ashley to attempt to address the problems at the club and demonstrate his support and commitment.
It marks only the fourth occasion Ashley and Benitez have met during the Spaniard's two-and-a-half year tenure at St James' Park.
Ashley has been present at Newcastle's last two matches, following a 16-month hiatus. On Saturday, he was abused by large sections of the crowd as the Magpies lost 2-0 to Leicester City at St James' Park.
Earlier this week, Ashley challenged anyone wanting to buy the club to show him the money.
Ashley and his representatives have never publicly named their price for the club, but it is unlikely to be sold for less than £300m.
Sky Sports News understands aside from purchasing the club, prospective buyers must also prove they have the funds to take the club forward.
Former Manchester United and Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon is trying to put together a deal to buy the club.
