So, Freddy Shepherd. Here comes a man who can finance some explosive growth for the Geordie nation’s favourite barcode army – and who won’t do it unless you sell him your shares – and you say ‘get lost!’ Hmmm. I know you don’t care about popularity but you are supposed to have NUFC’s interests at heart…

I have to say, I think this is all very healthy for the long term health of the Premiership (ignoring Peak Oil led depressions, of course). Many more clubs shaping up to be serious contenders – the league as a whole will get much stronger and attract the best world wide talent – obviously room for lots of positive feedback.

As I’ve said elsewhere, if I were Arsenal I’d be a bit worried.