The Newcastle United Thread

[MenInG]

Newcastle United cruised past Leicester City to claim a sixth consecutive Premier League win and move up to second in the table.

Chris Wood kickstarted a dominant performance by smashing the opener from the penalty spot before Miguel Almiron glided past the Leicester defence to tuck away the second.

Joelinton headed the third from a Kieran Trippier corner for his second goal of the season as the Magpies demonstrated the clinical edge that the hosts were missing.

With England midfielder James Maddison out of the Leicester squad, as he continues to recover from a knee issue sustained before the World Cup, Brendan Rodgers' side were toothless in attack.

Jamie Vardy was introduced off the bench to add pace to the Foxes' attack in the second half, and he managed to get in down the side on a couple of occasions but there was no blue shirt to meet his crosses.

The Magpies are four points behind leaders Arsenal, who have played two fewer games. Leicester - who registered just two tame efforts on target in the final 10 minutes - remain 13th.

 

[Saj]

Delighted for the NUFC fans.

A great club currently sitting in 2nd place in the table.

What a job Howe is doing.

 

[The_KING]

If Newcastle finish in the top 4, Howe deserves manager of the year. What a job he is doing.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

If Newcastle finish in the top 4, Howe deserves manager of the year. What a job he is doing.

I felt he deserved it last year considering the turnaround in form.

So far this season is going really well, well above expectations.

If asked at the start of the season we would have wanted comfortable top half and a good go in the cups. We've more than got that.

I do think top 4 will be beyond us, top 7 should now be the minimum we aim for and I think top 6 is achievable.

Regardless, I love watching us play, the difference from Bruce just over a year ago to this is incredible.

 

[The_KING]

I felt he deserved it last year considering the turnaround in form.

So far this season is going really well, well above expectations.

If asked at the start of the season we would have wanted comfortable top half and a good go in the cups. We've more than got that.

I do think top 4 will be beyond us, top 7 should now be the minimum we aim for and I think top 6 is achievable.

Regardless, I love watching us play, the difference from Bruce just over a year ago to this is incredible.

Even a top 6 finish is admirable.

Howe plays a good brand of football. Even at Bournemouth, where he had no money, he played a great brand of football.

Bruce is a terrible manager. I can't believe he keeps getting premier league jobs.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Even a top 6 finish is admirable.

Howe plays a good brand of football. Even at Bournemouth, where he had no money, he played a great brand of football.

Bruce is a terrible manager. I can't believe he keeps getting premier league jobs.

Top 6 would be amazing, would give us Europe and means we keep out one of the "top 6" sides

As for Bruce, he's done at a decent level

West Brom were foolish to give him a job, unsurprisingly they've started to win games after they sacked him.

 

[The_KING]

Top 6 would be amazing, would give us Europe and means we keep out one of the "top 6" sides

As for Bruce, he's done at a decent level

West Brom were foolish to give him a job, unsurprisingly they've started to win games after they sacked him.

I reckon one of Chelsea or Tottenham will finish outside the top 6, probably Chelsea.

 

[James]

I felt he deserved it last year considering the turnaround in form.

So far this season is going really well, well above expectations.

If asked at the start of the season we would have wanted comfortable top half and a good go in the cups. We've more than got that.

I do think top 4 will be beyond us, top 7 should now be the minimum we aim for and I think top 6 is achievable.

Regardless, I love watching us play, the difference from Bruce just over a year ago to this is incredible.

It’s good times to be a Newcastle fan.

GA — I understand your cautiousness completely.

But Newcastle have gone beyond mere Champions League challengers. Top 4 should now be the minimum target.

Newcastle are title contenders.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

It’s good times to be a Newcastle fan.

GA — I understand your cautiousness completely.

But Newcastle have gone beyond mere Champions League challengers. Top 4 should now be the minimum target.

Newcastle are title contenders.

Aye mate it's amazing.

It's how quick things have turned around that makes it even better, went from being the worst team in the league to one of the better ones.

It's nice hearing people talk about us as title challengers but we know that's not realistic at this stage.

To win the league you need good squad depth, we don't have that and you need a lot of luck, which did desert us earlier in the season but time will tell if we get that.

I'd absolutely snap your hands off if 4th place was offered.

We have Leeds (H) and then Arsenal (A). 4 points would do nicely. If we somehow got 6 then I might just start to dream

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle have been heavily linked with highly-rated 19-year-old Velez Sarsfield midfielder Maximo Perrone, but Manchester City may have beaten the Magpies to his signature.

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle will finish 2022 third in the Premier League despite being held to a goalless draw by Leeds at St James' Park.

The Magpies, a club transformed this year, offered almost all the attacking threat across the 90 minutes but were unable to find a winner which would have given them a seventh consecutive league win.

Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier saved excellently from both Chris Wood and Fabian Schar in the second half - a half played almost exclusively in the visitors' territory.

Still, Newcastle are now unbeaten in 12 games - a run which goes back to August - and they are only six adrift of leaders Arsenal, who can increase their cushion against Brighton from 17:30 GMT.

The hard-earned point for Leeds, who had one shot on target all match, moves them up a place to 14th.

Jesse Marsch's side are now three points clear of the relegation zone.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Frustrating result, created enough decent changes but unfortunately they mostly fell to the players we wouldn't want them to

Still, season is going well and we are on a decent result.

Title race was never realistically on for us, even top 4 is a stretch. I'm focusing on top 6 and seeing if we can do enough to stay there.

I hope we get a player or two in the transfer window as we still have some areas which need strengthening.

 

[IAJ]

Newcastle outplayed us but we still got away with one point. I know how you guys must be feeling. Leeds have been in similar situations themselves and even lost the matches.

 

[James]

Big bonus point for Leeds that!

Makes the table look a bit better for us.
MOT

 

[James]

<b>Newcastle United have recalled goalkeeper Martin Dubravka from his loan spell at Manchester United.</b>

The Slovakia international moved to Old Trafford in September on a season-long deal with an option to make the move permanent.

But the 33-year-old made just two appearances under manager Erik ten Hag, both in the Carabao Cup.

Dubravka joined the Magpies in 2018 and has made 130 appearances and kept 37 Premier League clean sheets.

Newcastle are third in the Premier League, nine points behind leaders Arsenal.

BBC Sport

 

[IAJ]

Hearing some rumours about Ronaldo being linked to Newcastle, that he has a clause where he can join Newcaslte on loan if they qualify for CL. Any truth in this? [MENTION=116]Geordie Ahmed[/MENTION]

 

[Saj]

A good point at Arsenal.

The defence was superb and Howe's tactics worked well.

Didn't offer much up front, but they wanted a point and got it.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Hearing some rumours about Ronaldo being linked to Newcastle, that he has a clause where he can join Newcaslte on loan if they qualify for CL. Any truth in this? [MENTION=116]Geordie Ahmed[/MENTION]

Think it's just the papers putting 2 and 2 together to come up with 5

A big part of our turnaround is the team spirit that Eddie Howe has built, getting someone like Ronaldo in would just risk ruining that

 

[Firebat]

Defended brilliantly today.

Howe has mastered the dark arts coaching manual that he dusts off when going to a big ground. Nearly got something at Anfield, and worked a treat today at the Emirates. I can tell you it's immensely frustrating as the opposition, but fair play, it paid off. Points shared.

 

[Kroll]

Congrats to [MENTION=116]Geordie Ahmed[/MENTION] and this monster thread. Didn't realise it was started 16 years ago. Geordie started it and he's still here for what could be the beginning of great things to come for his club after so long in the wilderness.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Congrats to [MENTION=116]Geordie Ahmed[/MENTION] and this monster thread. Didn't realise it was started 16 years ago. Geordie started it and he's still here for what could be the beginning of great things to come for his club after so long in the wilderness.

And at that stage I had already been supporting the club about 17 years.

The 14 years since this thread was created was tough as it was the Ashley ownership.

That dark cloud was fortunately lifted on 7.10.2021 and we finally have some hope for the future.

 

[Saj]

I look at the job Eddie Howe has done and one player in particular is a shining example of what a good manager he is.

Joelinton - an honest trier in the past has been transformed into a very good footballer under Howe.

Fantastic man-manager.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

I look at the job Eddie Howe has done and one player in particular is a shining example of what a good manager he is.

Joelinton - an honest trier in the past has been transformed into a very good footballer under Howe.

Fantastic man-manager.

It's an amazing transformation, went from being one of the biggest flops the PL has ever seen to actually being very much worth every single penny

Though, as much as I love Eddie Howe this one did involve a bit of good fortune, even if it didn't feel it at the time.

At home to Norwich, Clark got sent off after 10 mins, Fraser was taken off for Fernandez and then Joelinton was moved into midfield as we went to a 4-4-1.

He was excellent on the night and pretty much hasn't looked back since.

 

[Firebat]

Newcastle United star Joelinton charged with drink-driving

Newcastle United star Joelinton has been charged with drink-driving after being stopped by police in the early hours of the morning.

Police said a 26-year-old man was pulled over in the Ponteland Road area of Newcastle at 01:20 GMT on Thursday.

The Brazilian is due to appear before magistrates on 26 January.

The midfielder, who signed for Newcastle United for £40m in 2019, scored in the club's 2-0 win against Leicester City on Tuesday.

Joelinton was previously fined £200 after he broke lockdown restrictions to get a haircut.

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-tyne-64255270

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says Joelinton's drink-driving charge came as a "shock" and he is unsure about picking him against Fulham on Sunday.

Joelinton, 26, was stopped by police in the early hours of Thursday and is scheduled to appear before magistrates on 26 January.

The Magpies, third in the Premier League, face Fulham at St James' Park.

"I'll make a decision closer to the game in consultation with him, so I'm not 100% sure," said Howe.

Joelinton has played 21 games for the Magpies this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists.

The Brazilian's latest goal came with his side's second goal in a 2-0 Carabao Cup win against Leicester City on Tuesday.

He was charged after police stopped a car in the Ponteland Road area of Newcastle at 01:20 GMT on Thursday.

BBC

 

[MenInG]

Alexander Isak scored an 89th-minute winner after Aleksandar Mitrovic's penalty for Fulham was disallowed as Newcastle returned to third in the Premier League.

Club record signing Isak, on his first league appearance since September after injury, tapped home from close range at a jubilant St James' Park.

Mitrovic looked to have given Fulham the lead against his former team, but his spot-kick was ruled out because he accidentally kicked the ball on to his standing foot when he slipped.

It was a dramatic final 30 minutes to a tight game which Newcastle edged without being able to create clear chances.

In the end Isak, who made a promising start to life on Tyneside before his injury, was in the right place to convert strike partner Callum Wilson's knock-back.

Fulham manager Marco Silva was booked for protesting after the final whistle, with his side unfortunate to see their five-game winning run ended.

BBC

 

[Amjid Javed]

FabrizioRomano

Chris Wood’s now signing the contract as new Nottingham Forest player after completing all medical tests #NFFC

Eddie Howe says: “We're hopefully planning to replace Chris Wood”, as Newcastle will look for new striker

- GA must be heart broken at this sale

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle extended their unbeaten run to a club-record 15 top-flight games with their third goalless draw against Crystal Palace this season.

The Magpies, who moved up to third, had the better chances with Vicente Guaita denying Joelinton three times and Callum Wilson, Sven Botman and Alexander Isak all failing to score headers.

This draw meant Newcastle are eight points behind leaders Arsenal, having played two games more than the Gunners, and possibly ending excitable talk of a title bid.

Palace are yet to win a game in 2023, although this was their second point against a top-four side in four days, having held Manchester United on Wednesday.

They had to wait 72 minutes for their only shot on target with Jean-Philippe Mateta's drive expertly tipped over the bar by Nick Pope - who has now kept nine clean sheets in a row.

On a mixed night for the Eagles, they lost talismanic forward Wilfried Zaha to an apparent hamstring injury in the second half.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

FabrizioRomano

Chris Wood’s now signing the contract as new Nottingham Forest player after completing all medical tests #NFFC

Eddie Howe says: “We're hopefully planning to replace Chris Wood”, as Newcastle will look for new striker

- GA must be heart broken at this sale

Haha, took me a few days to get over it

Chris Wood to be fair to him was a valuable signing, he played his part in helping us stay up

But our ambitions for this season and beyond is more than just staying up and it's obvious he's not good enough for that

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton has been banned from the road and fined £29,000 after admitting drink-driving.

Police arrested the Brazilian player after pulling over his 2022-plate Mercedes G-Wagen in Ponteland Road, Newcastle, at 01:20 GMT on 12 January.

A breath test showed the 26-year-old had 43 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, above the legal limit of 35.

Sitting at Newcastle Magistrates' Court, district judge Paul Currer gave him a 12-month driving ban.

This will be reduced to nine months if Joelinton completes a rehabilitation course.

The judge calculated the fine based on documents showing the footballer's weekly wage was £43,000 and said he must also pay a £2,000 surcharge and £85 costs.

He said he took Joelinton's early guilty plea and compliance with officers into account and was convinced of his remorse.

"You placed yourself in real jeopardy and it could have had disastrous consequences for the lives of others," he told the player.

"I sincerely hope you have learned from this mistake and we don't see you in this court again."

 

[Firebat]

Anthony Gordon: Newcastle United agree £45m transfer fee with Everton for winger

Newcastle United have agreed a fee with Everton for Anthony Gordon.

The two clubs have come to on an initial fee of £40m plus add-ons that could see the deal rise to £45m in total.

Personal terms still are now being discussed as Gordon's move to St James' Park edges closer.

Everton have a sell-on clause inserted in the deal after the player told his boyhood club he didn't want to play for them again.

Gordon, who attended Everton's training ground on Friday morning, made it clear to Everton he wanted to leave the club in this transfer window.

The 21-year-old had failed to turn up for the previous three days as Newcastle's efforts to sign him increased.Sky Sports News reported this week that the forward was not there on Tuesday due to a planned absence, but did not show up on Wednesday and Thursday for unplanned reasons.

Sources indicate he did not train with the rest of his team-mates at Finch Farm on Friday, but Everton's stance is he trained as normal.

Newcastle see Gordon as a player who can operate in a number of positions across the front line.

Eddie Howe's side were rebuffed with an inquiry in the summer but have retained an interest.

During the summer transfer window, Chelsea conducted high-level talks with Everton over Gordon's availability.

He was then seen as one of Thomas Tuchel's top targets and Chelsea were prepared to pay £60m to bring him to Stamford Bridge.

https://www.skysports.com/football/...close-to-agreeing-fee-with-everton-for-winger

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Everton forward Anthony Gordon in a deal that could eventually be worth £45m.

The 21-year-old, who has been at Everton since he was 11, was a target for Chelsea in the summer.

The initial fee is understood to be £40m, rising to £45m with add-ons.

"Since I heard of the interest, I was always convinced Newcastle were for me. People haven't seen what I'm capable of yet," Gordon told NUFC TV.

"I think the fan base and the city really suits me as a person, the way the team are playing under the gaffer really suits me, and the club just look like they're heading in the right direction.

"I feel like it's a really big step. I think under the gaffer, and the way the club's going, I can really excel here."

An Everton statement said Gordon had joined Eddie Howe's side - who are third in the Premier League - for an undisclosed fee after submitting a formal transfer request.

BBC

 

[Saj]

Decent signing is Gordon.

Versatile, young, quick and clever.

A good addition to the squad.

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle United have signed defender Harrison Ashby from fellow Premier League side West Ham for a deal worth up to £3m.

His contract was due to expire in the summer and he had told West Ham he was not willing to sign an extension.

The 21-year-old, who joined the Hammers as a youngster and made seven appearances for the senior side, agreed a deal with Newcastle on Monday.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Newcastle into the League Cup final with a good win at home to Southampton.

Congrats to the Geordies! I hope you go on to win it.

 

[Firebat]

First cup final since '99, would be great if they won it

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Newcastle into the League Cup final with a good win at home to Southampton.

Congrats to the Geordies! I hope you go on to win it.

Was nervy from the moment Bruno got sent off but the start of the game and then at full time it was incredible, during the dark days of Mike Ashley never thought we'd experience this.

Mind is non-stop on the final, just want it to be here now.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Hope Newcastle win final vs man united

 

[WengerOut]

Does the red affect PL games?

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Does the red affect PL games?

Yes, so he'll miss the following games

West Ham (H)
Bournemouth (A)
Liverpool (H)

Then should be back for the final

 

[Firebat]

Newcastle United have reportedly joined the race to sign England midfielder Jude Bellingham,19, from Borussia Dortmund in the summer. (Football Transfers)

 

[Saj]

Stuttering a bit in recent weeks.

4th place which is fantastic but the likes of Spurs will be eyeing that 4th position.

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle United say they are "praying for some positive news" amid reports that their former player Christian Atsu is among those trapped under rubble following this morning's earthquake in Turkey.

A number of players for Turkish club Hatayspor were reported by local media to be missing or under the debris following the quake, among them Atsu.

 

[Kroll]

Newcastle United say they are "praying for some positive news" amid reports that their former player Christian Atsu is among those trapped under rubble following this morning's earthquake in Turkey.

A number of players for Turkish club Hatayspor were reported by local media to be missing or under the debris following the quake, among them Atsu.

Praying for all the victims of this terrible disaster.

 

[MenInG]

Footballer Christian Atsu has been pulled from the rubble of a building "with injuries" after the earthquakes in Turkey, his club's vice-president Mustafa Özat has told Turkish radio.

Atsu, who plays for Hatayspor, was trapped after the earthquakes that have killed at least 4,800 people.

The ex-Ghana forward, 31, played 107 games for Newcastle and has had spells with Chelsea, Everton and Bournemouth.

Hatayspor sporting director Taner Savut is still in the collapsed building.

Hatay was one of the areas closest to the epicentre of the earthquake, and has suffered extensive damage.

"Christian Atsu was removed from the wreckage with injuries," Özat told Radyo Gol.

"Unfortunately, our sporting director Taner Savut is still under the rubble.

"Hatay was deeply affected. We are coming towards the end of the most dangerous hours."

Atsu, who won won 65 times for Ghana, joined Hatayspor in September 2022 after a season with Saudi Arabian team Al-Raed.

He scored the winning goal in the 90th minute of Hatayspor's Super Lig match against Kasimpasa on Sunday.

The Ghanaian Football Association tweeted: "We've received some positive news that Christian Atsu has been successfully rescued from the rubble of the collapsed building and is receiving treatment. Let's continue to pray for Christian."

 

[MenInG]

Christian Atsu's agent says the footballer's whereabouts are unknown, a day after it was reported he was pulled from the rubble of a building "with injuries" after the Turkey earthquakes.

More than 11,000 people in southern Turkey and northern Syria are now known to have been killed.

Ghana forward Atsu plays for Hatayspor and the club's vice-president Mustafa Özat had said the player was rescued.

"We are doing everything we can to locate Christian," said Nana Sechere.

"As you can imagine, this continues to be a devastating time for his family."

In a social media post, the agent added: "Following yesterday's update from the club that Christian had been pulled out alive, we are yet to confirm Christian's whereabouts."

Hatayspor manager Volkan Demirel told Turkish sport website Spor Arena there was "no news yet" on either Atsu or sporting director Taner Savut, who was reported missing on Monday along with the player.

Savut's location and condition is currently unknown.

"If they were in hospital, don't you think I would share this? Please don't be sure that he survived. This should not be written as he survived," he said.

Ghana's Ambassador to Turkey, Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, told radio station Joy FM there was "confusion" as to where Atsu had been sent.

"Yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here informed me that they wanted to confirm if Christian Atsu had been found and rescued, and sent to a medical centre," she said.

"However, in all the confusion - which is understandable under the circumstances [as you are rescued you are put in an ambulance and sent to the hospital] - they are not sure yet which particular hospital or health facility he has been sent to.

"This morning again, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured me they are working feverishly to find out which facility he was sent to and will get back to me as soon as possible because I have been on them that I need to go and see him."

Atsu, 31, played 107 games for Newcastle and had spells with Chelsea, Everton and Bournemouth.

He has won 65 caps for Ghana and joined Hatayspor in September after a season with Saudi Arabian team Al-Raed.

BBC

 

[Firebat]

What a time for Pope to make a mistake like that...

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nick Pope: suspended for the League Cup final <br><br>Backup Martin Dubravka: cup-tied after appearing for Manchester United in the competition <br><br>Third string: Lloris Karius <a href="https://t.co/EWBZxGd6Ru">pic.twitter.com/EWBZxGd6Ru</a></p>— B/R Football (@brfootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/brfootball/status/1627005844318564352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Saj]

Good news for Newcastle fans:

BREAKING: Miguel Almiron has signed a new three-and-a-half-year contract with Newcastle.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Feel sorry for Newcastle fans having Karius in goal in a final

Utd 2-0 Newcastle Half-Time.

It doesnt matter if Newcastle lose 4-0, they have to go all out in the 2nd half. An early goal and game back on.

 

[The_KING]

Shame for Newcastle, but with the wealth they have, they will definitely win a trophy within the next 2-3 years.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Gutted but not devastated, thought we played well but lacked cutting edge and somewhat unlucky with the goals conceded

Bigger picture is 16 months ago we had the worst owner in the league with the worst manager in the league so we've come a long, long way in such a short space of time

Focus has to be on the remaining 15 games, need to give it all and try and finish in a European spot (think top 4 will be just out of reach)

 

[Firebat]

Huge sign of Newcastle's trajectory that they went toe to toe with Man United in a final. Lost on an own goal and a set piece. Lots to be proud of

 

[Firebat]

Etihad up next. Do us a favour [MENTION=116]Geordie Ahmed[/MENTION] will you

 

[MenInG]

The Premier League "needs to re-examine the assurances" it was given about potential Saudi state control of Newcastle United, says human rights group Amnesty International.

Newcastle's takeover by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) was approved after "legally binding assurances" the Saudi government would not have any control over the club.

However, in a US court case Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan has been described as "a sitting minister of the government" with "sovereign immunity".

The statements have been made by lawyers representing LIV Golf, owned by the PIF, which also has a controlling stake in Newcastle.

"It was always stretching credulity to breaking point to imagine that the Saudi state wasn't directing the buyout of Newcastle with the ultimate aim of using the club as a component in its wider sportswashing efforts," said Peter Frankental, Amnesty International's UK economic affairs director.

"There's an unmistakable irony in the sovereign wealth fund declaration emerging in a dispute about another arm of Saudi Arabia's growing sports empire, but the simple fact is that Saudi sportswashing is affecting numerous sports and governing bodies need to respond to it far more effectively.

"The Premier League will surely need to re-examine the assurances made about the non-involvement of the Saudi authorities in the Newcastle deal, not least as there's still a Qatari bid for Manchester United currently on the table."

The Premier League has declined to comment.

Newcastle United: Premier League 'comfortable and satisfied' Saudi state will not interfere
Why is Saudi Arabia's involvement in sport controversial?
A year on from Newcastle United takeover, what has the impact been?
A San Francisco court has approved the PGA Tour's request to include Al-Rumayyan and the PIF as defendants in its lawsuit against LIV and ordered them to produce documents in the case.

However, the PIF is challenging the order, arguing the fund and its governor Al-Rumayyan "are not ordinary third parties subject to basic discovery relevance standards".

"The order is an extraordinary infringement on the sovereignty of a foreign state that is far from justified here," a court document reads.

"They are a sovereign instrumentality of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and a sitting minister of the Saudi government, and they cannot be compelled to provide testimony and documents in a US proceeding unless their conduct - not LIV's or anyone else's - is truly the 'gravamen' of the case."

Why was the PIF's takeover approved?

The PIF initially withdrew from its takeover bid for Newcastle in July 2020 as a result of an "unforeseeably prolonged process", before the deal was revived.

The takeover was only approved in October 2021 after the Premier League received "legally binding assurances" that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia would not have any control over the club.

The dispute had centred over who would have controlling influence of Newcastle, and would therefore be subject to the league's owners' and directors' test.

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters told the BBC in November 2021 that if his organisation found evidence there was state involvement in the running of Newcastle "we can remove the consortium as owners of the club".

The PIF has declined to comment while Newcastle have been contacted.

BBC

 

[Saj]

Sliding a bit now in the Premier League.

5th place is still a good effort at this stage of the season, but the concern has to be that they don't tail-off and slide down the table.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Etihad up next. Do us a favour [MENTION=116]Geordie Ahmed[/MENTION] will you

Going to be difficult but with the league cup out of the way and it being a bit of a free hit we could get something from this game, though our record at the Etihad is really poor

 

[Firebat]

Newcastle United will target Arsenal's Scotland defender Kieran Tierney, 25, who could cost more than £30m. (Telegraph)

 

[Firebat]

Big win, keeping pace with the top 4. Isak can lead them to something special this season.

 

[Firebat]

Newcastle United to trial safe standing at St James' Park in 2023-24 season

Newcastle United will trial safe standing at St James' Park from the start of the 2023-24 season.

An 1,800-capacity section for home fans will be introduced in the stadium's south-east corner, with a similar area for away supporters in the Leazes End.

Premier League clubs were permitted to introduce licensed standing areas from the start of the current season.

Newcastle said more than 4,000 fans had responded to an online survey, with 75% in favour of a standing section.

Chelsea's Stamford Bridge became the first top-flight ground to allow licensed standing in almost 30 years as part of a trial in January 2022.

Since 1994, grounds in the first and second tiers of the English football pyramid have been required by law to be all-seaters.

That followed a recommendation of the Taylor Report following the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, when 97 fans died following a crush.

However, in recent seasons, campaigners have called for standing to be reintroduced - and rail seating has been developed at some grounds to provide seats that can be converted to standing areas when desired after new guidance from the Sports Grounds Safety Authority.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/65085088

 

[MenInG]

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has told MPs he cannot comment on whether his organisation is investigating who has control of Newcastle and if it is re-examining its approval of the club's Saudi takeover.

Newcastle's takeover by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) was approved after "legally binding assurances" the Saudi government would not have any control over the club.

However, in a US court case, documents published last month described the PIF as "a sovereign instrumentality of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia" and PIF Governor and Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan as "a sitting minister of the government" with "sovereign immunity".

The statements were made by lawyers representing LIV Golf, owned by the PIF, which also has a controlling stake in Newcastle.

Masters was asked about the documents by Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) select committee member Clive Efford MP on Tuesday

"I can't really comment on it," said Masters.

"I mean, even to the point of saying, 'Is the Premier League investigating it?', we can't really comment on it.

"Obviously we are completely aware. And you're correct about the general nature of the undertakings that we received at the point of takeover. But I can't really go into it at all.

"The time when the Premier League comments publicly on regulatory issues is when it's charged, and at the end of the process when an independent panel has decided whether any rule breaches have actually taken place. The investigatory process, we don't talk about at all."

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/65102462

 

[Saj]

Totally outplayed Man Utd today.

The only surprise was that it was just 2-0

Up to 3rd place now in the league table.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Excellent win.

It seems Utd havent recovered from the 7-0 hammering.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

We absolutely battered them, they were lucky it was only 2-0

The above is supported by us having the highest xG against Man-U for any side this season, which considering they've shipped 7 against Liverpool and 6 to City is impressive

We now have 3 away games on the bounce followed by Spurs at home, tough set of fixtures but will go some way to determining where we will finish

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

We absolutely battered them, they were lucky it was only 2-0

The above is supported by us having the highest xG against Man-U for any side this season, which considering they've shipped 7 against Liverpool and 6 to City is impressive

We now have 3 away games on the bounce followed by Spurs at home, tough set of fixtures but will go some way to determining where we will finish

 

[Amjid Javed]

We absolutely battered them, they were lucky it was only 2-0

The above is supported by us having the highest xG against Man-U for any side this season, which considering they've shipped 7 against Liverpool and 6 to City is impressive

We now have 3 away games on the bounce followed by Spurs at home, tough set of fixtures but will go some way to determining where we will finish

Confident on top 4 finish?

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Confident on top 4 finish?

Not massively, years of being terrible has conditioned me into being quite pessimistic towards us

If Everton can get a result today it would help and like I said the next 4 games (3 away and then Spurs at home) will be very pivotal, so hopefully we have a bit of a cushion at that stage

 

[Amjid Javed]

Not massively, years of being terrible has conditioned me into being quite pessimistic towards us

If Everton can get a result today it would help and like I said the next 4 games (3 away and then Spurs at home) will be very pivotal, so hopefully we have a bit of a cushion at that stage

Yeah I understand that, I guess European places would have been a target at start of season. I cant see why you can't push for top 4, if means europa in the end its still a good season for Newcastle.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Yeah I understand that, I guess European places would have been a target at start of season. I cant see why you can't push for top 4, if means europa in the end its still a good season for Newcastle.

You are spot on, think most of us wanted comfortable top half with a cup run and we have gotten that.

Right now, CL is very much a possibility but there's very little margin for error but at the very least we need to end this season with European football otherwise it will feel a bit disappointing

 

[Amjid Javed]

You are spot on, think most of us wanted comfortable top half with a cup run and we have gotten that.

Right now, CL is very much a possibility but there's very little margin for error but at the very least we need to end this season with European football otherwise it will feel a bit disappointing

With CL that would help you attract the next level of players you need in terms of team progression. Balancing CL and PL next season would be tough, Arsenal would have issue as well. But a European place finish would be something to build on.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Newcastle were in punishing form against West ham last night, picking form up at right time.

 

[Saj]

With CL that would help you attract the next level of players you need in terms of team progression. Balancing CL and PL next season would be tough, Arsenal would have issue as well. But a European place finish would be something to build on.

Absolutely and it could see players that would normally opt for Liverpool or Chelsea etc choosing Newcastle instead.

Exciting times at St James Park.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Absolutely and it could see players that would normally opt for Liverpool or Chelsea etc choosing Newcastle instead.

Exciting times at St James Park.

With FFP in place Newcastle can't do what Chelsea and City did at start of their reigns with rich owners where they spend loads and loads. This is why I like how Newcastle have bought well in transfer market and built a team rather then "big names". I think they could now aim to get players that normally Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs were looking at. For example they could target players like maddison, bowen, Rice etc.. take best players from clubs in lower half of PL and build an even better team.

It's good when PL has sides outside the Big 5 doing well.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

With FFP in place Newcastle can't do what Chelsea and City did at start of their reigns with rich owners where they spend loads and loads. This is why I like how Newcastle have bought well in transfer market and built a team rather then "big names". I think they could now aim to get players that normally Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs were looking at. For example they could target players like maddison, bowen, Rice etc.. take best players from clubs in lower half of PL and build an even better team.

It's good when PL has sides outside the Big 5 doing well.

I think the only difficulty with that is if we get CL football then whilst we can probably compete in terms of transfer fees we aren't in a position yet to compete when it comes to wages

The clubs you mentioned can and do pay players 200k p/w plus, we are probably a couple of years away of being in that position as we need to drive our revenue up as it was massively stagnant under Ashley

Like you say we've bought very well, that combined with existing players improving under Howe is why we are having a good season, I just hope we can keep pushing and get that CL spot as it's what Howe and the players deserve

 

[MenInG]

Brentford 1-2 Newcastle

Isak provides finishing touch to Newcastle comeback

Newcastle failed to muster a single shot on target in a lacklustre first-half display, and having been punished following the concession of two penalties before the break their winning run was under serious threat.

Whatever Howe said at half-time clearly worked though, as Newcastle came out with the energy and intensity so lacking in the first 45 minutes.

They moved the ball quicker, with more purpose and while Raya was unfortunate that Joelinton's square ball ricocheted off his heel and into his own net, the goal had been coming.

As Newcastle grew in the game, so too did Isak. After a quiet first half he was freed up by the introduction of Wilson and found himself in dangerous positions to stretch the home defence.

As much as his intelligent movement, Isak's finishing has stood out since moving to St James' Park - and it was in evidence again.

Wilson rolled the ball to him on the edge of the area and the cleanly struck, curling strike was in the moment it left his boot.

Newcastle have already exceeded expectations this season, and with nine games to go they are the team with momentum in the Champions League race.

With the strength of mentality they showed to fight back in the second half, combined with the quality of the likes of Isak, they look set to book their place in Europe's premier competition next season.

 

[Firebat]

5-0 against Spurs at HT! Incredible )

 

[Amjid Javed]

5-0 against Spurs at HT! Incredible )

They should be aiming for 10-0 here.

 

[Technics 1210]

FYI everyone on a serious note - there is a 3pm national emergency siren on everyone’s phone - please don’t confuse it for another goal alert in the Newcastle Spurs game!

 

[Amjid Javed]

Really poor 2nd half from newcastle, only scored 1 goal should have got another 5.

On serious note, Arsenal when they come to St James aint winning the game with form newcastle are in right now.

 

[MenInG]

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe speaking to BBC Sport: "It’s not often you have a start like that in a game, especially one of such importance.

"Jacob Murphy has grown into the team, he’s got a lot of qualities, he can play various positions and he took his goals very well today.

"I’m delighted with the whole group, a real team effort."

Asked about if Newcastle looked like a Champions League side today: "It's not for me to say, I saw a very good team playing today, two actually. But there’s a lot of games to go and a lot of points to play for."

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Really poor 2nd half from newcastle, only scored 1 goal should have got another 5.

On serious note, Arsenal when they come to St James aint winning the game with form newcastle are in right now.

Once we got to 5 the game was done

If we maintained the intensity then 10 would have been on the cards but we have 2 games this week so easing off made sense