Unbelievable hypocrisy as Qataris make Man Utd move – Shameless comments & laughable U-turn

The very second Saudi investment arrived at St James' Park, so many in the media pointed the sportswashing card at Newcastle United fans.

We were either made to feel guilty for continuing to support our club or told to walk away now 'oil money' had entered the fray.

Less than 18 months later, it's now emerged that a Qatar-based investment group are about to launch a 'massive offer' for Manchester United.

Based on the reaction we saw to our PIF takeover, you'd expect this Qatari bid to be met with similar disdain and widespread concern, if we're being consistent. However, as we've seen over the past few years, there's always one rule for others and another for the 'big six', as certain sections of the media have lapped up the prospect of Middle Eastern megabucks replacing the Glaziers at Old Trafford.

Just look at this opening line from Ian Ladyman - the Football Editor at The Mail: 'As Qataris move for Man United, they can't afford to be fussy in dash for cash, a new stadium and stars. Fans need a Glazers get-out - and Newcastle and City didn't take a moral stance.'

What happened to sportswashing being a massive concern? Isn't it funny how the narrative shifts when major investment serves to benefit someone else.

Remember when the Saudis were closing in on Newcastle - there was no end of articles on human rights issues and how the 'big six' were doing everything in their power to stop the deal going through.

Now media darlings Manchester United are closing in 'oil money', their fans are being told to accept morally bankrupt owners because it would bring 'cash, a new stadium and star players.' This stance can't co-exist with one that demands Eddie Howe and your Toon fan on the street to answer tough questions on sportswashing?

There's no consistency and a LOT of hypocrisy, especially when considering this is the same club who openly opposed the takeovers of Manchester City and Newcastle.

Did Newcastle fans embrace new investment and the end of Mike Ashley's miserable spell at St James' Park? Yes, the vast majority did, while some raised valid concerns. But to beat us with that sportwashing stick then drop all concerns the moment big money comes Manchester United's way is hypocrisy of the highest order.