Newcastle fans respond to Kieron Dyer’s comments about Champions League football and Mike Ashley.
Kieron Dyer of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Cup Round of 16 first leg match against AZ Alkmaar.
Kieron Dyer has not made himself particularly popular with Newcastle United fans after his comments on Sky Sports’ The Debate show.
Dyer was on the panel alongside former Magpies teammate Craig Bellamy and riled some supporters with his opinions about their unrealistic expectations and also owner Mike Ashley.
Owner of Sports Direct and Newcastle United, Mike Ashley.
“I think he’s [Ashley] been treated a bit harshly at times,” the ex-midfielder said on the programme.
“The fans wanted Kevin Keegan as manager – he gives them their wish, it doesn’t go well. The fans wanted Alan Shearer – he came in as caretaker manager, that didn’t work out well. He has had a bit of a rick when he changed the stadium name and stuff like that.”
Dyer later added: “I think they [the fans] expect to be up there. I’m not saying winning the league but I think the fans think they’re a Champions League team. I honestly believe that.
“They were spoiled with Kevin Keegan.”
Dyer spent eight injury plagued years at St James’ Park and was generally well respected among the Newcastle supporters.
For large parts of the 38-year-old’s time there the North East club were playing in Europe as well, although two relegations from the Premier League since 2009 has represented a difficult period.
And those Toon fans on Twitter are less than impressed with what Dyer had to say about them amid talks of a takeover as Ashley prepares to sell up.