In an exclusive interview with Football FanCast, Steve Howey, who made 270 appearances during his career, has backed the Newcastle United Supporters trust who are trying to raise enough money to buy a 1% stake in the club, once Mike Ashley leaves.

The trust believes they will require about £3 million to have enough money to purchase a 1% ownership in the club, once new owners come in.

The initiative has already more than £50,000 and is being backed by people such as Alan Shearer, Rob Lee and George Caulkin, who is an ambassador for the move, and considering his strong links to Amanda Staveley that appears a smart move.

Speaking on why there's nothing wrong with fans trying to own some of their club and what should happen to the money if they aren't successful, Howey told FFC:

"I think there's nothing wrong with actually trying to do it but obviously you've got fans that will be thinking 'what's the point' and that it's a waste of time.

"If you can raise enough funds for it then it'll be absolutely brilliant but if the new owners don't want the money that's been raised then surely it can go to different charities around Newcastle."

Mike Ashley thought he had eventually sold the club almost 12 months ago when he accepted a big from PCP Capital Partners, only for the Premier League to block the deal.

The Magpies currently sit six points above the relegation zone with just seven games remaining which will keep Ashley's valuation of the club intact.