Newcastle fans call for St James’ Park boycott in protest against Mike Ashley

A statement has confirmed they intend to hold a series of protests, starting with a boycott of the Arsenal game

Several prominent Newcastle United supporters' groups have joined forces to call on fans to boycott St James' Park in protest at Mike Ashley's ownership of the club. A statement released on Tuesday evening confirmed that nine separate groups - including If Rafa Goes We Go, The Magpie Group and Ashley Out - are working together over the course of the 2019/2020 campaign. The statement explains how they intend to 'starve' Ashley of money by avoiding home games throughout the season, beginning with the opening day Premier League fixture against Arsenal. 'We will be focusing on a full boycott of matchday activities at St James’ Park going forward (#BoycottSJP) and this will be our mantra until the club has new ownership,' the statement reads. Ashley has been hugely unpopular with  Newcastle supporters throughout his 12-year stint as owner of the club. His failure to agree an extension to Rafa Benitez's contract at the end of last season has taken matters to a new low. The statement also adds that the groups have received the support of some local businesses, who are offering special deals on match days for food and drink to those supporters who are boycotting games.