Ashely takes over at Sports Direct

CONTROVERSIAL retailer Mike Ashley has assumed direct day to day control of Sports Direct following the resignation of chief executive Dave Forsey.

Rangers investor Ashley, who owns Newcastle United, said it felt like he has “lost my right arm” following the departure of Mr Forsey, who had spent 32 years working for the billionaire.

The move comes in the week that Sports Direct, majority owned by Ashley through his MASH investment vehicles, announced that an independent review would be held into working practices at the retail giant.

Ashley said: "I feel like I have lost my right arm, but I do hope to have the opportunity to work with Dave again in the future."

Chairman Keith Hellawell, whose own offer to resign was rejected by the Sports Direct board, said:  "I would like to thank Dave for his significant contribution over the last 32 years and during a period of significant growth and change at the Company. 

"On behalf of all the people at Sports Direct I wish him well in his future endeavours."