Simon Jordan insists it is 'unfair' for Newcastle boss Eddie Howe to answer Saudi ownership questions

Simon Jordan has dismissed co-host Jim White’s claims that Eddie Howe deserves to be questioned over Saudi Arabia. In March, the Toon boss received backlash after a 1-0 defeat to Chelsea by refusing to answer questions on Newcastle United’s ownership.

Roman Abramovich had been placed under scrutiny at the time over his alleged ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the war in Ukraine breaking out. This reignited debate regarding the Magpies’ model when the two sides clashed at Stamford Bridge.

Howe also fended off questions about Saudi Arabia in his first press conference as Newcastle manager. Former Crystal Palace owner Jordan believes it is unfair to condemn the 44-year-old for choosing not to get involved in a sensitive political subject.

“Do we have to accept Saudi Arabia as a sporting landscape that is going to be embraced?” he told talkSPORT. “Well, we're going to have to because their finances are so significant that they are allowing that situation to happen.

“I do think it's right that questions are asked. I don't think it's right how people like you (White) rock up and grill Eddie Howe, a manager of a football club at a difficult time, because he's a football manager working within the confines of an environment.”

Jordan continued to clash with White when told journalists are obliged to ask difficult questions. He added: “I understand that (questions need to be asked). But what do you expect the answer to be? I think that is an unfair question to ask a football manager."