Newcastle United supporters are to request a meeting with Mike Ashley, other members of the club’s hierarchy and Keith Harris, the investment banker charged with securing new ownership at St James’ Park, prior to deciding whether to ramp up their opposition to the present regime.

Over the long-term, the recently-formed Newcastle United Supporters' Club aims to receive trust status, own a stake in the club and seek a voice on the board, but the more immediate goal is to engage Ashley in discussions regarding the status of Newcastle’s sale and his plans for the future should a buyer not be found.

The NUSC, which was founded in the aftermath of Kevin Keegan’s resignation, has been recommending a boycott of all official club merchandise and products, but they will widen their campaign should Ashley reject their proposal. Other activities under discussion include asking sponsors and corporate fans to withdraw their custom.

An end to Ashley’s disastrous tenure on Tyneside is a priority, although the call for talks is recognition that the prevailing economic conditions have altered the situation at Newcastle. Among other things, there is a desire to establish the club’s intentions should the billionaire sportswear retailer still be in situ during the January’s transfer window.

“We need to show any future owner that we can either be his best friend or his worst enemy,” Michael Teasdale, a spokesman for group, said. “We need to show we’re here to work with them, but also to show what kind of damage we can do if they treat us badly.” Shola Ameobi, the Newcastle striker, has praised Joe Kinnear for transforming his career. The 27-year-old, who has endured a torrid spell with injuries and loss of form, had fallen out of favour under Keegan’s leadership and came close to joining Stoke City and Ipswich Town last summer.

While Keegan started with Ameobi in his last game in charge - the 3-0 defeat at Arsenal in August - the forward has approached his best form since Kinnear’s appointment as interim manager, scoring against Sunderland and Manchester City. Kinnear has likened him to John Fashanu, who he worked with at Wimbledon.

“Joe’s come in and put self-belief back into my game and really put my career back on track,” Ameobi said. “And I have to say it's great for me to be back out there working hard and playing well. I admire what Joe’s done, not just for me, but for the whole squad. He’s shown that belief in me and it’s great for me personally.”