Just before the takeover went through in 2021, Newcastle United lost one of their brightest academy prospects. The Magpies were in a very different place, with Mike Ashley sucking every ounce of ambition out of Newcastle United. His presence had an impact on everything associated with the club, from the first-team to the fans. The final stages of his ownership at St James’ Park were agonisingly desperate, made all the more infuriating due to PIF’s failed takeover the year before. Eventually they did get a deal done in October 2021, and Newcastle United has been transformed ever since. Every de…