Dennis Wise has defended the transfer strategy used by Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley during the summer transfer window.

Newcastle made seven additions ahead of the new Premier League campaign, but the Magpies made a profit of £20m and it has resulted in criticism regarding the ambition shown by Ashley.

Manager Rafael Benitez has also previously voiced his frustrations, but Wise - who has previously worked under Ashley as an executive director - has suggested that Ashley is being harshly treated.

Wise told Sky Sports News: "Unfortunately whatever he does, he will constantly take stick. It's as simple as that. There are a lot of people out there that don't help the situation. They want to bring it onto him.

"People complain about them not spending enough money but if you trade well at a football club and you're able to bring players in and take players out and make money, I don't see what the problem is with that."

Newcastle started the new season with a 2-1 defeat at home to Tottenham Hotspur.