Rio Ferdinand believes Newcastle supporters should be 'thanking' owner Mike Ashley for all that he has done for the club.
The former Manchester United defender and BT Sport pundit was questioned by host Jake Humphrey on his relationships with Ashley and the Magpies faithful.
Before going on to defend billionaire retail entrepreneur, Ferdinand insisted that his stance on the matter had nothing to do with his business dealings with Sports Direct – the sports retail company owned by Ashley.
Before Newcastle's game with Chelsea on Saturday evening, Ferdinand claimed that he understands why Ashley is trying to sell the club and that he shouldn't put any more money into the club.
'Newcastle are a yo-yo club,' Ferdinand told BT Sport. 'He [Ashley] doesn’t want to do that anymore. He’s been there, done that and move on. What’s the problem? He wants to sell the club, why should he go and spend millions of pounds.'
The retired centre back also pointed to how Ashley spent millions to get them back in the Premier League before spending £60million more on a striker and midfielder.
'He spent £30m on a striker, £30m on a midfielder – as he is trying to sell the club – both of them get injured. £60m down the drain. Would you do that?'
While Humphrey played the role of devil's advocate, Ferdinand would not be swayed on his opinion – an issue he has be criticised for defending in the past.
Ferdinand then insisted that the fans should be thanking Ashley for the appointment of Rafa Benitez.
'You look down the road, last season or whatever, Sunderland spent £1.2million to get in the Championship,' Ferdinand continued.
'He’s done that to get them back up, and by the way, please say thank you for getting Rafa Benitez in because by rights, they’re lucky to have him.'
