Exclusive Interview with Boycott SJP

After it was revealed that Rafael Benitez would not be extending his contract as Newcastle United manager, it was inevitable that there would be uproar from supporters.

A new fan group emerged from the outpouring of anger at the decision to let Benitez leave, that group being, Boycott SJP.

The boycott topic is one that has been discussed on numerous occasions during Mike Ashley's disastrous time as owner. There has always been a willingness to organise a boycott by many supporters, however, previous attempts haven't been successful.

Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images

When asked how Boycott SJP would be different to previous attempts, the group stated:

'We are looking at many ways to make this boycott a success. We are trying to provide Newcastle fans who were going to the game with some alternatives.'

'One of the ideas we have had is to set up a ‘fan-zone’ type area for fans with a small entry fee. Ideas are still fairly far away from becoming a reality, but we are confident that with more fan’s support that we can do it.'

'We also believe that now more than ever, people are more willing to support a boycott, partly to do with the recent events regarding Rafael Benitez.'

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With plans in their infancy, the group are under no illusions that organising the boycott will take a lot of time and effort. Boycott SJP are very driven and determined to succeed where many have failed previously.

'We are solely aiming to organise the biggest boycott in Premier League history against Arsenal on the 11th of August.'

Having been set up some six weeks before the start of the season, Boycott SJP hope to gain as much support as possible.

'We have in the past looked at organising protests against Mike Ashley’s ownership of Newcastle United, but it never felt like it would be possible.'

'By starting the movement on the 25 of June we are able to get a large number of fans on board before tickets have been bought. We believe this to be essential along-side growing resentment of Mike Ashley by the majority of supporters.'

For now the group are busy putting an effective plan in place, in order to make Boycott SJP a success. The group will be in need of help from supporters in the future.

'As of now, we do not require any additional help. However in the coming weeks we will definitely need some help from Newcastle fans. Any fans willing to help can get in touch by sending a direct message to our Twitter account, @SJPBoycott.'

An important question that regularly arises is how plans of a boycott would reach those who aren't on social media. Boycott SJP are aware of the difficulties in reaching those who aren't using social media.

Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images

'To reach people outside of social media will be very difficult, but we have multiple plans to make it possible.'

'We aim to get articles in local newspapers and we also hope to have flyers printed that we can hand out to season ticket holders. We are not yet close to this happening, but it is only day 2 for this group and we appreciate all the help we can get.'

There will be many supporters who are sceptical about another group hoping to topple Mike Ashley's ownership, however, now more than ever is a time for Newcastle supporters to stick together.