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ASHLEY’S TOON REIGN
June 2007
Ashley buys Newcastle United for £134m, greeted with a level of scepticism unusual for a buyout.
January 2008
Brings back local hero Kevin Keegan to manage the club in a blaze of glory.
September 2008
Keegan exits the club citing “interference”. Ashley faces a huge backlash, prompting him to announce his intention to sell.
Autumn 2008
Joe Kinnear takes over as manager of the club following Keegan’s departure.
February 2009
Kinnear taken to hospital following a heart attack. His assistant Chris Hughton is appointed temporary manager.
April 2009
Former Newcastle player and BBC pundit Alan Shearer is appointed manager until the end of the season.
24 May 2009
Newcastle drops out of the Premier League following a 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa.