Tuesday July 28th, 2026

    Last update 20:54 BST

      Your genial hosts: Niall and Biffa




 

Next Match

 

Bristol City
Friendly
Ashton Gate
Wednesday 29th July
Kick-off 7.30pm
Last Match

 

Gateshead 1
Newcastle 1
Friendly
International Stadium
Saturday 25th July

Match report

The Never-Ending Tour

  Number of Newcastle
  games attended by
  NUFC.com in 2026/27:

1

alt  

 

Bristol City (a) SOLD OUT
Valencia (a)
SOLD OUT
Bayer / Strasbourg (h) Public sale now
Liverpool (h)
Member ballot closed
Spurs (a)
ST applications closed

2026/27:
Bristol City (a)

Next up for Eddie Howe's side in pre-season is a visit to Championship side Bristol City on Wednesday.

It's a 7.30pm start at Ashton Gate and Newcastle were allocated 3,407 places in the Atyeo Stand. As of Monday, the hosts advertised that 17,000 tickets had been sold for what is now a 27,000 capacity stadium.

This will be the first time a Magpies XI have played there since a 1-0 away success in the Championship back in August 2016, when Dwight Gayle was on target.

While Newcastle were drawing 1-1 at Gateshead on Saturday, Michael Skubala's Robins were winning 3-1 at League Two Swindon Town.

Bristol City have published the following update:

"Keegan’s image will be displayed on the in-bowl screens in the seventh minute – a nod to the number he wore with such distinction during his playing career – and supporters are encouraged to take part in a minute’s applause."

The newly-formed Newcastle United Supporters Club in South West England are meeting at a pub pre-match.

Venue is The Spotted Cow at 139 North Street in Bedminster, BS3 1EZ, which is a 15 minute walk from the away end. All welcome from 5pm onwards. 

More details via their Facebook page here

This game and the remainder of United's public pre-season programme are available as paid live streams from NUFC.

More details
here 

Update:
Kept Mag

Another day, another Ross Wilson photo opportunity.... 

Newcastle's Sporting Director posed with Harvey Barnes in photos released on Monday confirming what is described as "a new long-term contract" for the winger.

It's three years since he arrived from Leicester City, signing a five year deal for a claimed fee of £38m.

28 year-old Barnes follows Sven Botman, Lewis Miley and Fabian Schar in agreeing a revised contract recently.

Schar's 12 month extension expires next summer, when Dan Burn, Jacob Murphy, Nick Pope and Joe Willock all become free agents as it stands. Expect further photos... 

Update:
KK tributes


KK tributes in 2026

Floral tributes to Kevin Keegan left outside the South West Corner of SJP were removed on Tuesday, with other items to be recovered by club staff on Wednesday.

Tributes began to appear soon after news of Keegan's passing on Monday July 20th, with the area around the Bobby Robson and Alan Shearer statues chosen due to ongoing construction work inside the stadium.

That meant the scenes that followed Sir Bobby's passing in 2009 when the public were allowed to place and view tributes on the Leazes End couldn't be replicated:


SBR tributes in 2009

As was the case 17 years ago, an unprecedented level of response has come from football personalities and fans alike, many with no direct link to the deceased, other than an appreciation of their contributions to the game.

PS: Wor Flags are raising funds to stage a Keegan-themed tribute ahead of the season opener at home to Liverpool in August. Donations can be made online here

U21s:
Moors v Mags




National League North side Spennymoor Town will host Newcastle U21s in a pre-season friendly at Brewery Field this Thursday at 7pm.

Admission for that game is £10 adults, £5 over 60s/U18s, with advance sales from STFC here or pay at the gate.

The game comes ahead of United U21s staging a training camp at the Pinatar Arena in Spain, after which Robbie Stockdale's side visit St. Mirren for a behind closed doors fixture on Wednesday August 12th at 12.30pm.

Update:
Sho goes on

Newcastle have added a new Head of Corporate Affairs to their management team in the form of Shola Ameobi, who vacates his previous role of club loans co-ordinator.

Announcing the news, the club confirmed that Shola was part of the Premier League’s Executive Pathway Scheme in 2023 and graduated with a master’s degree in strategic leadership at Newcastle University in December 2025.

There's no mention of who will take on the "loan arranger" role, or whether the post will be filled at all. 

2026/27:
Own goal saves blushes

Gateshead  1  Newcastle  1

Match action

Match report

Update:
The King is dead

Following his own recent comments, news of Kevin Keegan's death comes as no surprise, but remains a shock of seismic, "remember where you were when you heard" magnitude. 

His arrival on Tyneside in 1982 not only filled the ground of a club that was dying of indifference, but gave it some desperately-needed legitimacy, some pride in the colours.

It's difficult to properly describe the enormity of someone like Keegan joining a Second Division side but it was massive. Then to see him, Chris Waddle and Peter Beardsley net 65 goals between them and gain promotion in his second season was phenomenal.

Anticipation turned to excitement and a return to the top flight, only for the rot to set in again prior to a second act almost a decade later, when the roof truly came off and dreams almost became the most memorable reality.

In the absence of the coveted silverware, what remains tangible are moments of high emotion from the debut goal versus QPR and four goals at Millmoor via his walkout and Milburn steps cameo to Howay 5-0 and Graham Fenton. 

The third coming of Keegan remains a regrettable episode for all concerned; his biggest victory coming in a courtroom rather than a football pitch - the legacy of which was a self-imposed exile from Gallowgate that he spoke of ending earlier this year, but tragically didn't get to enjoy.

It's as the inspirational captain and then ringmaster of the Entertainers that he'll be fondly recalled by generations of Geordies - along with countless individual moments; a handshake here, a photo or an autograph there, just a minute of his time but etched in the recipient's memory.

His passing severs another connection with football as it once was, coming just hours after the unpalatable circus where a World Cup Final should have been.

Love it? we certainly did. Farewell Special K.

PS - it still niggles us that the "Love it!" clip is always referred to as the time KK lost the mind games with Fergie.

It was arguably Kev's finest hour in response to some shameful utterances from the Manchester United boss after the Red Devils had just beaten Leeds 1-0 and thumped Forest 5-0.

It was actually a fantastic rallying call but it perhaps came a game too early - following our win at Elland Road but before the fateful 1-1 draw at the City Ground.

It's also worth recalling that far from throwing away the title that season through kamikaze defending, Newcastle only conceded two more goals than their rivals. 

Also often overlooked is that the Mancs collected an incredible 40 points from their final 15 games to win the league (plus six FA Cup wins on their way to a "double").

Latest:
KK RIP

Statement from the Keegan family, Monday July 20th:

"It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.

The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.

"Kevin, a double Ballon D'or winner, was a much loved husband, father and grandfather.

"The family would like to thank Kevin's incredible medical team for all their support.

This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy."

From Newcastle United:

"
We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history.

"Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.

"As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be.

"As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an Entertainer.

"Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.

"Kevin’s impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him.

"At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

"Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy.

"Rest in peace, King Kev."

From Eddie Howe:

"Like everyone connected with Newcastle United, I was devastated to hear the news that Kevin has passed away.

"On behalf of our players and staff, I want to send our love, strength and deepest condolences to Kevin’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

"Kevin was an inspiration to me as a young player and, I’m honoured to say, a friend whose guidance and support meant a great deal in recent years.

"Long before I ever dreamed of becoming a manager, I was captivated by his Entertainers team. They played with courage, freedom and excitement. They made people fall in love not only with football, but with Newcastle United.

"Those teams reflected Kevin himself – passionate, positive, fearless and full of energy. That spirit remains part of this club’s identity today and will continue to push our players and staff and inspire generations to come.

"Kevin understood better than most the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United. He was always willing to share his wisdom, offer encouragement and provide support, and I will always be grateful for that.

"For me personally, Kevin’s influence became even more meaningful when I arrived at Newcastle United as manager.

"He showed me incredible warmth and generosity. He had already given so much to this football club, yet he immediately made me feel welcome.

"Kevin understood better than most the privilege and responsibility of leading Newcastle United. He was always willing to share his wisdom, offer encouragement and provide support, and I will always be grateful for that.

"What struck me most was his humility. Despite everything he achieved in the game and his iconic status here, he never sought recognition. He simply wanted to help because he cared deeply about the club and the people within it.

"Every conversation with Kevin left you feeling better. He had remarkable warmth and humour and also a love for football that touched everyone around him. It is profoundly saddening that he is no longer with us.

"Kevin’s legacy will live on through this football club, its supporters and everyone he inspired.

"Thank you, Kevin, for everything. Rest in peace."

From Terry McDermott and his family:

"We are heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend, Kevin Keegan.

"Kevin was so much more than a team mate. He was a lifelong friend whose warmth, loyalty, humour and passion for football touched so many lives. The memories they shared, both on and off the pitch, will be treasured forever.

"Although Terry’s dementia means he is no longer able to express his feelings publicly, we know how much Kevin meant to him and how deeply this loss would have affected him.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Jean, Laura, Sarah and all of Kevin’s family at this incredibly sad time. We hope they find comfort in the love and respect being shown for Kevin by so many people.

"Kevin was one of football’s true greats, but to Terry he was, above all, a cherished friend.

"He will be greatly missed and never forgotten."

Update:
Second string
striker secured


Newcastle have confirmed the signing of 19 year-old forward Afner Ca following his release by Spanish side Levante.

The Guinea-Bissau youth international spent last season playing for Levante's U19 side, having moved there from Portuguese club Amora last summer. 

A five year deal is claimed for Ca, whose recruitment is part of the club's attempts to boost their U21 side.

He's set to return to Spain when Robbie Stockdale's squad hold a training camp at Pinatar next month.

Update:
UEFA publish NUFC settlement details


Following Newcastle's publicised breach of UEFA's own financial sustainability regulations, further details of the settlement reached are now in the public domain here

The borrowers
:
Loan lads


Antonio Cordero (Cadiz):
Cueta (h) Friendly, Wednesday.

Odysseas Vlachodimos (Seville):
NEC Nijmegen (a) Friendly, Friday.

Harrison Ashby (Luton Town):

Go Ahead Eagles (h) Friendly, Sunday.

2026/27:
TV times


The Premier League have published their revised fixture schedule for live TV covering August and September, with Newcastle's opening four games all altered:

Sun 23.08.2026 Liverpool (h) 4.30pm Sky
Sat 29.08.2026 Spurs (a) 5.30pm Sky
Sat 05.09.2026 Bournemouth (h) 12.30pm TNT
Mon 14.09.2026 Leeds United (a) 8pm Sky*
Sat 19.09.2026 Hull City (h) 3pm no live UK TV

* if NUFC or LUFC are in the Carabao Cup Third Round and drawn against a club in the Champions League (Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City or Manchester United), this game will be on Sat 12.09.2026 @ 12.30pm.

Assuming both sides survive the Second Round, a final decision on the PL game will rest on the Third Round draw, which takes place on or around Tue 25.08.2026.

The possible move is because Carabao Cup Third round ties are once again split over two weeks, the first clashing with Matchday 1 in the Champions League Group stage.

PS: Although trains are scheduled to run as usual between Newcastle and London on the day of the Spurs away game, Kings Cross station will be closed the following day.


Update:
Squad updates


Senior players signed (4):
Ewen Jaouen, Sean Steur, Bazoumana Toure, Aladji Bamba

Development players signed (1):
Afner Ca

Senior contracts extended (3):
Harvey Barnes, Mark Gillespie, Fabian Schar

Senior players sold (2):
Anthony Gordon (Barcelona), Sandro Tonali (Spurs)

Development squad players sold (2):

Travis Hernes (Groningen), Joe White (Crewe Alexandra)

Senior players loaned (3):

Harrison Ashby (Luton Town), Antonio Cordero (Cadiz), Odysseas Vlachodimos (Seville)

Professional contracts signed (6):
Sam Alabi,
Guy Bloomer, Jake Durrant, Henry Johnson, Mason Miley, Kacey Wooster

Scholarship contracts signed (8):
Chukwudi Afumuzor, Theo Benjamin, Roman Dowell, Jayden Kouossu, George Mair, Leon Mukumbira, Alfie Seldon, Lesecond Yeutembip


 

2026/27:
Squad numbers

Confirmed squad numbers for this season as follows:

1 Nick Pope
2 Tino Livramento
3 Lewis Hall
4 Sven Botman
5 Fabian Schar
7 Joelinton
8 Aladji Bamba
9 Yoane Wissa
10 Will Osula
11 Harvey Barnes
12 Malick Thiaw
14 Sean Steur
17 Bazoumana Toure
19 Anthony Elanga
23 Jacob Murphy
24 Ewen Jaouen
27 Nick Woltemade
28 Joe Willock
29 Mark Gillespie
31 Aidan Harris
33 Dan Burn
37 Alex Murphy
39 Bruno Guimarães
41 Jacob Ramsey
51 Leo Shahar
62 Sean Neave
67 Lewis Miley

Obviously more will be added (or subtracted) following confirmed movements in the transfer market.

Aside from the previously-announced allocation of the number 14 shirt to Sean Steur, fellow new boy Bazoumana Toure plumped for 17, Ewen Jaouen took 24 and the new owner of 8 is Aladji Bamba.

William Osula is now listed as inheriting 10 from Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento takes 2 from Kieran Trippier and Anthony Elanga moves to 19.

Unlikely lads
:
Comings and goings

SJP old boys on the move since last season include:

Tom Allen was Darlington, now Hebburn Town
Elliot Anderson
was Nottingham Forest, now Man City
Will Anderson
now South Shields (trial)
Demba Ba
now Le Havre (Sporting Director)
Dan Barlaser
was Boro, now MK Dons
Rafa Benitez
left Panathinaikos (Manager)
Habib Beye
left Marseille (Head Coach)
Joe Brayson now George Washington University
Adam Campbell
was Hartlepool United, now South Shields
John Carver
left Lechia Gdansk (Manager)
Ian Cathro
was Estoril, now St.Etienne (Head Coach)
Michael Chopra
now Trethomas Bluebirds
Lee Clark
was Rotherham, now Hartlepool (Manager)
Steve Clarke
left Scotland (Coach)
Karl Darlow
was Leeds United, now Manchester United
Luuk de Jong
left Porto
Amadou Diallo
was Oliveirense, now KF Skenderbeu
Josh Donaldson
now Hebburn Town (loan)
Martin Dubravka
was Burnley, now Spurs
Damien Duff
now Brentford (Coach)
Kieron Dyer
now Southend United (Manager)
Rob Elliot
was Gateshead, now Carlisle (Manager)
Cameron Ferguson
was Bala Town, now Southport
Ludwig Francillette
was Morecambe, now Oxford City
Ryan Fraser
left Western Sydney Wanderers
Macauley Gillesphey
was Charlton, now Bradford City
Liam Gibson
was Harrogate Town, now Hartlepool
Alex Gilliead
left Shrewsbury Town
Isaac Hayden
was QPR, now Leyton Orient
Chris Hogg now Northampton Town (Manager)
Joselu
left Al-Gharafa
Jamaal Lascelles
left Leicester City
Valentino Lazaro
was Torino, now Al-Ain
Robert Lee
now Hornchurch (Director of Football)
Jamal Lewis
left Preston North End
Kevin Mbabu
left Midtjylland
Charlie McArthur
now York City
Steve McClaren
now Rotherham (Head of Football)
James Milner
left Brighton & Hove Albion
Michael O'Neill
left Blackburn Rovers (Manager)
Scott Parker
left Burnley (Manager)
Brian Pinas left Feyenoord (Coach)
Matt Ritchie was Reading, now Bournemouth (Tech Dir)
Callum Roberts
was Scunthorpe, now Notts County
Allan Saint-Maximin was RC Lens,
now Charlotte FC
Mo Sangare left Morecambe
Lubo Satka left Samsunspor
Josh Scott was Bishop Auckland, now West Auckland
Danny Simpson now Arabian Falcons (player/coach)
Islam Slimani
left Cluj
Elias Sorensen was Valerenga, now PEC Zwolle
Dylan Stephenson
was Dagenham, now Darlington
Louis Storey
was Gateshead, now Carlisle United (Coach)
Matt Targett
now Hull City
James Tavernier left Rangers
Steven Taylor now Desert Falcons (Manager)
Ciaran Thompson now Darlington
Max Thompson
now Rotherham United (trial)

Kieran Trippier
now Wolves
Jake Turner left Gillingham, now Rotherham United (trial)
Jay Turner-Cooke
was Halifax, now Shrewsbury Town
Dan Ward was South Shields, now Chester
Isaac Westendorf was Oxford City, now Torquay United
Georginio Wijnaldum left Al-Ettifaq
Mike Williamson now South Shields (Manager)
Callum Williams now Horden CW
Callum Wilson
was West Ham, now Brentford
Jack Young was Worthing, now Carlisle United (trial)


 






Privacy policy
 

 
alt





Tickets/Fixtures
Season 2026/27

NUFC ticketing website online here

NUFC Box Office: 

0344 372 1892 line manned:
Monday to Friday: 10am to 5pm
Home games: 10am to 30 minutes from KO
Away games: Three hours from KO until KO

Milburn Stand Box Office manned:
Wednesdays only: 10am to 5pm
Home games: 10am to half time


2026/27 ST prices here

2026/27 ST home cup scheme: 
closed on Mon 13.07.2025 @ 5pm

ST home cup pricing: 
CC: £22 & £28
FA
: £35 & £40


SJP seating plan online here  

PL home ST limits:
ST left unused, limit is 5
ST sold/transferred limit is 10


Home ticket
transfers are possible from three weeks until one hour before KO. 

Away ticket sales dates online here

Away ticket
transfers are possible between 72 hours and five hours before KO (times may vary). A maximum of two are permitted per season (PL only).

More info online here and here

ST holders have 24 hours to apply for away tickets, 24 hours to determine success, then 48 hours to buy.


Success is based on the loyalty point total calculated from applications received. Any applications from ST holders with less points are entered into a ballot, which will have taken place before tickets go on sale.

Regardless of the loyalty point level a game sells out at, to purchase a ticket you must have applied in the initial 24 hour window.

The initial purchase window is divided into two sections determined by a loyalty point division that alters for each game - those successful applicants above that point division usually get two hours head start.

NB: emails from NUFC confirming success may arrive after the purchase window opens - if you think you qualify due to your points total, log on and complete your purchase. 

Tickets not bought by successful applicants are then offered to unsuccessful applicants with a reduced loyalty points total - new applications cannot be made at this time.

Only those within the new loyalty point total are eligible to buy - even if you had more, your purchase window has already closed.  

PL away ticket prices are unchanged at £30 for the 2026/27 and 2027/28 seasons.

Mags Member ballot dates online here

Metro service updates online here


2026/27 Magpie Mover details tbc

Fixtures:


Wed 29.07.2026
Bristol City (a) @ Ashton Gate, 7.30pm. Friendly.
SOLD OUT
. Allocation:  3,407 (paper tickets).

Thu 30.07.2026 U21s v Spennymoor Town (a) @ Brewery Field, 7pm. Friendly. £10 adults, £5 over 60s/U18s. Advance sales from STFC or pay at the gate.

Sat 01.08.2026 U21 training camp @ Pinatar Arena, Spain (until Sun 09.08).

Sat 08.08.2026 Valencia (Spain) (a)
@ Mestalla Stadium, 9pm local
time. Friendly. SOLD OUT. Allocation: 2,000 (digital tickets).

Wed 12.08.2026 U21s v St.Mirren XI (Scotland) (a) @ venue tbc, 12.30pm. Friendly. Behind closed doors - no public access.

Wed 12.08.2026 Everton (n)
@ Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, 5.15pm. Friendly. Public sale now, all sales via Ticketmaster
(no loyalty point issued). Live on Premier Sports.

Sat 15.08.2026 Bayer 04 Leverkusen (Germany) (h)
@ SJP, 3pm. Friendly. Public sale now.

Sun
16.08.2026 NUFCW v Inter Women (Italy) (a) @ SJP, 1pm. Friendly. Admission included in men's game.

Sun 16.08.2026 Strasbourg (France) (h)
@ SJP, 4pm. Friendly. Public sale now.

Sun 23.08.2026 Liverpool (h
) @ SJP, 4.30pm. Premier League.
Member ballot winners notified Wed 29.07.2026 11am, seat selection from Wed 29.07.2026, Noon to Fri 31.07.2026, Noon. ST fwding/resale Fri 31.07.2026, 4pm. Member sale Mon 03.08.2026.
Live on Sky Sports.

Sat 29.08.2026 Spurs (a) @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, 5.30pm. Premier League. ST applications closed. Seat selections open Wed 29.07.2026, 2pm, close Fri 31.07.2026, 2pm. Ticket transfer window from Mon 24.08.2026 at 5pm until Thu 27.08.2026 at 5pm. Allocation: 3.038. Live on Sky Sports.

Tue 01.09.2026 Transfer window closes @ 11pm. 

Fri 01.01.2027 Transfer window opens @ Midnight.

Mon 01.02.2027 Transfer window closes @ 11pm.


NUFC live on TV:
Wed 12.08.2026 Everton (n) 5.15pm Prem
Sun 23.08.2026 Liverpool (h) 4.30pm Sky
Sat 29.08.2026 Spurs (a) 5.30pm Sky
Sat 05.09.2026 Bmouth (h) 12.30pm TNT
Mon 14.09.2026 Leeds United (a) 8pm Sky*

* should either side face a team from the Champions League in CC R3, this game will be on Sat 12.09.2026 @ 12.30pm.

(PL selections made to Sun 20.09.2026)

(PL season ends on Sun 30.05.2027)


PL live TV release dates:  

Oct
w/c Mon 24.08.2026
Nov w/c Mon 21.09.2026
Dec w/c Mon 19.10.2026
Jan w/c Mon 30.11.2026
Feb w/c Mon 21.12.2026
Mar w/c Mon 18.01.2027
Apr w/c Mon 22.02.2027
MW35 w/c Mon 29.03.2027
MW36 w/c Mon 05.04.2027
MW37 w/c Mon 26.04.2027
MW38 after Sun 23.05.2027

Carabao Cup:
(NUFC enter in Round 2 regionalised into Northern and Southern sections. The draw takes place after Round 1 ties, played from Fri 07.08.2026 to Sun 09.08.2026).

R2:
w/c Mon 24.08.2026
R3:
w/c Mon 07.09.2026 / Mon 14.09.2026
R4:
w/c Mon 26.10.2026
QF:
w/c Mon 14.12.2026
SF1:
w/c Mon 11.01.2027
SF2:
w/c Mon 01.02.2027
F:
Sun 21.03.2027

FA Cup: 
(NUFC enter in Round 3: draw takes place on or around Sun 06.12.2026).

R3: Sat 09.01.2027
R4: Sat 13.02.2027
R5: Sat 06.03.2027
QF: Sat 03.04.2027
SF: Sat 24.04.2027
F: Sat 22.05.2027

EFL Trophy Northern Group C:
??.??.2026
Bradford City (a)
??.??.2026 Rotherham United (a)
??.??.2026 York City (a)


Round dates - match order tbc:
w/c Mon 21.09.2026
w/c Mon 05.10.2026
w/c Mon 09.11.2026


FA Youth Cup:
NUFC U18s enter in Round 3, ties be played on or before Sat 12.12.2026. Draw date tbc.


Other events @ SJP:

Euro 2028:

Four group stage games and one last 16 tie will be played at SJP on the following dates:

Mon 12.06.2028
Thu 15.06.2028
Sat 17.06.2028
Tue 20.06.2028
Sun 25.06.2028

(Kick-off times will be advised in 2027)

 

International Magpies
National Service

Park Seung-soo (South Korea U23s):
15.09.2026 to 03.10.2026 Asian Games (Japan)

2026/27:
21.09-06.10.2026
09.11-17.11.2026
22.03-30.03.2027

2027/28:
20.09-05.10.2027
08.11-16.11.2027
20.03-28.03.2028
 

Coxy's Corner

Whoops, He did it Again...


What's this all about then?
Click here  
for a rambling explanation of sorts....
 

On This Day in History
28th July


Born Or Died:

1906 Isaac Tate born, Gateshead.
(1923-27)

Goalkeeper who signed for the princely sum of £5 from Marley Hill in August 1923.

"Ike" had a brief spell in Newcastle's first team when both Alex Mutch and understudy Bill Bradley were injured, making his debut in a 4-1 home win over West Ham United.

Despite standing at just 5'7", Tate was to move on to the Hammers on a free transfer in May 1927 and played against Newcastle on Christmas Eve of that year - when his new club won 5-2 at The Boleyn Ground.

Again failing to become first-choice, Ike joined Doncaster Rovers two years later and played on until 1935, joining the coaching staff following promotion to Division Two.

1927 Matthew McNeil born, Glasgow.
(1949-51)

Centre half whose 6'3" inch frame was occasionally deployed by Newcastle, in place of fellow Scot Frank Brennan.

Signed from Hibs for £6,400 in December 1949, McNeil debuted in a 1-2 loss at Middlesbrough on Christmas Day 1950.

United made a profit on him when Barnsley forked out £10,500 at the start of the 1950/51 season and Matt later played for Brighton and Hove Albion, Norwich City and Cambridge United.

Returning to Scotland and settling in Kirkintilloch, McNeil succumbed to lung cancer in April 1977. 

1952 Derek Craig born, Ryton.
(1969-75)

A League Cup outing against Arsenal in 1971 that ended in a 0-4 Highbury reverse proved to be the high point of centre-half Derek's SJP career - along with a Texaco Cup tie appearance three years later v Burnley.

Coming through the club's youth system, Derek was a reserve team regular until he left the club in 1975, signing up for a stint in the USA with San Jose Earthquakes.

Returning to England, Craig played for Darlington, York City and local non-league side Brandon United.

1985 Mathieu Debuchy born, Fretin, France. (2013-14)

At Gallowgate as Newcastle began 2013 with a 1-2 home defeat to Everton, French international right back Debuchy joined from Lille on a five and half year contract for a claimed £5m.

With hometown side Union Sport Fretin as a youngster, Matheiu joined Lille at the age of eight and came through the ranks to make the first of over 200 senior team appearances in January 2004.

2011 was a momentous year for the player, who won a French League and double Cup with Lille in May and collected his first full cap for France against Albania in November. 

Links between Newcastle and Debuchy first appeared in April 2012 and he played and scored for France against Iceland a month later, with United scouts present. 

Appearing for his country in all four of their Euro 2012 fixtures, Lille reportedly rejected two bids by Newcastle of between £4m and £6m before apparent agreement on a £6.3m fee was reached - only for a row over add-ons to erupt.

A deal still looked likely in pre-season, amid talk of Debuchy's close friendship with Yohan Cabaye and quotes attributed to the player asking to be allowed to make a switch from Lille to Tyneside.

By August however, the player had been told by Lille that they would refuse any offers to sell him and he appeared in their season-opening league win at St. Etienne.

That was to be his only club appearance in over a month though, sustaining an ankle injury playing for France days later.

Having belatedly moved to the Premier League, Mathieu debuted in a 0-0 draw at Norwich City during January 2013.

However he didn't exactly hit the ground running and ended up sharing right back duties with the unfancied Danny Simpson.

That was due in part to fitness issues, but also some questionable defending that manifested itself in needlessly-conceded penalties against Aston Villa and QPR. 

Some concerns were also raised by his apparently deliberate and successful attempt to be sent off dismissed during United's 0-6 home hammering by Liverpool.

After an improved 2013/14 season that included his first club goal (away to the mackems), speculation that the French international would follow his big mate Yohan Cabaye to PSG did the rounds.

That proved to be a false claim, but the player's acknowledgement of the fans in United's final games of the season was a strong indicator that his time as a Magpie was up, with Arsenal strongly linked.

Following protracted negotiations, Mathieu became a Gunner in July 2014, following his return from the World Cup Finals in Brazil - where he made four appearances.

United raked in around £10m-£12m, of which £5m went on Dutch World Cup right back Daryl Janmaat, who arrived from Feyenoord as an instant replacement.

Debuchy's first season as a Gunner was a disappointment though, injury restricting his availability and leading to claims that he was surplus to requirements at the Emirates after just 12 months.

Regaining fitness but failing to hold down a regular starting place a loan move to Bordeaux followed in February 2016.

Back at the Gunners, Injury saw Debuchy play just 16 minutes of the 2016/17 season after injuring his hamstring.

Joining St. Etienne on a free transfer in January 2018, he remained with Les Verts until May 2021 when moving on to Ligue 2 side Valenciennes. 

Retiring in 2023 Mathieu coached at lower league side US Lequin, returning to join the staff at former club Lille the following year.


 


What Else?

1948 United belatedly marked promotion to Division One with a party at the Oxford Galleries for players "and their wives and sweethearts" as The Journal reported.

Players were each presented with unique books including pictures of them in action along with a caricature. "The womenfolk" meanwhile received handbags.

1979 Plymouth Argyle (a)
3-0
(1-0)
Friendly 
Martin(19), Shoulder(73), Withe(78) 
2,397
Our four-match pre-season tour of South West England reached Home Park.

Among the Pilgrims squad was midfielder Gary Megson, who would later join the Magpies via Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest.

This was our second tour fixture, coming 48 hours after a 1-1 draw at Bath City. We went on to win 3-2 at Torquay United, before losing at Exeter City by the same score.

1980 Tomelilla/Ystad XI (Sweden) (a) 3-0 (?-?)
Friendly 
Cartwright, Rafferty, Montgomerie 
2,000 

Another pre-season tour of Sweden ended with only our second win in five games.

1985 Leicester City (a)
2-3
(2-0)
Friendly 

Beardsley(37), Reilly(38)
Smith(63,90), Wilson(65)
3,000 

United's Isle of Man Cup campaign got off to a losing start on a wet Sunday at the Douglas Bowl.

There was a first outing for new signing Alan Davies following his arrival from Manchester United.

Team: Thomas, Anderson, Wharton, Davies, Clarke, Roeder, McCreery, Megson (Gascoigne 83), Reilly (Cunningham 46), Beardsley, Heard.

1988 Nykvarn (Sweden) (a)
4-0
(2-0)
Friendly 
D.Jackson(
1-0), Robinson(2-0,4-0),Mirandinha(3-0
1,000
A pre-match rainstorm flooded the pitch but the game went ahead, recent arrival Dave Beasant not risked with a groin problem and Martin Thomas given the gloves.

1994 Visan Pallo (Finland) (a)
2-0
(1-0)
Friendly 
Lee(31), Mathie(82)
2,500
The second of two pre-season games in Finland in as many days took United to the town of Kemi.

Team: Srnicek, Venison, Peacock, Neilson, Beresford, Watson, Lee, Fox, Elliott, Cole (Mathie 46), Beardsley. 

1997
United sent a second string XI across the river Tyne to the International Stadium for a pre-season game that ended up 1-1. 

Scorer for United was Paul Brayson, who would later move on to the Tynesiders.

1999 Stoke City (a)
2-1
(1-1)
Friendly
 
Dumas(41), Robinson(67)
Jacobsen(44)
6,742

After an inspirational performance at Reading, Ruud Gullit replaced Des Hamilton early on as we made our Britannia bow, but confirmed his retirement as player after a lethargic display. 

Recent signing Franck Dumas scored with a stunning long-range strike and striker Paul Robinson continued his pre-season scoring streak with what proved to be the winner.
NUFC.com match report

2000 A Magpie discards XI came back from a two-goal deficit against Workington at Borough Park to record their third pre-season victory. 

Stuart Green scored just after the break, David McMahon pulled us level on the hour and a deflected own goal from a Jamie Coppinger shot completed a 3-2 win.

2001 A strong Reserve side conspired to throw away a 2-0 half time lead at Queen of the South, allowing John Connolly's Doonhamers to get back on level terms. 

Olivier Bernard and a Stuart Green penalty had put the Magpies ahead, but a frail defensive display from Marcelino undermined their efforts.
NUFC.com match report.

2004 Ipswich Town (a)
1-2
(1-1)
Friendly

Robert(40)
Kuqi(7), Couñago
(72)
24,644
United's pre-season schedule took them to Portman Road on a tropical Wednesday evening, for a well-attended friendly staged in memory of the late Northumbrian-born Town player and coach Dale Roberts.

The link was of course Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson, who was angered by the booing from home fans directed at one-time Canaries striker, Craig Bellamy.

Future Magpie striker Shefki Kuqi opened the scoring for the Tractor Boys, while a trio of former Town players lined up in black and white: messrs Ambrose, Bramble and Dyer. 
NUFC.com match report

2005 Despite almost joining Birmingham City and Charlton Athletic over the summer, it seemed that midfielder Lee Bowyer's future remained at SJP, following his Intertoto Cup goal against Deportivo la Coruna.

2006 The draw for the UEFA Cup Second Qualifying Round took place and Newcastle were paired with FK Ventspils of Latvia.

However, the away leg was switched from the coastal town to the national stadium in Riga - partly due to the poor road links which weren't ideal for the trucks carrying TV crews and broadcast equipment.

2009 Magpies winger Jonas Gutierrez was named in Argentina's squad for a friendly in Moscow against Russia, but coach Diego Maradona again overlooked Fabricio Coloccini.

2010 Newcastle confirmed that they had completed the signing of free agent Sol Campbell after completing his medical.

The ex-England international
became the oldest player in the squad - six months older than Steve Harper - and would also become our oldest Premier League participant, even longer in the tooth than Ian Rush.

2012 SC Braga (Portugal) (n) Friendly
2-1
(0-0)
Ba(63), R.Taylor(72)
Amorim(68)
550(approx)
Beto of Sporting Braga was added to the list of keepers who paid the price for failing to heed the clear and present danger of Ryan Taylor over the wall.

The former Portuguese international was powerless to prevent a trademark dead ball conversion from United's number 16.

That propelled United to victory at the Estadio Algarve in Portugal after future Manchester United boss Ruben Amiron cancelled out Demba Ba's opener.

Fabricio Coloccini stepped forward and lifted the awkwardly-titled (and proportioned) Trofeu Internacional de Futebol do Guadiana, somewhat reminiscent of a dodgy TV aerial.
NUFC.com match report

2013 Blackpool (a)
1-0
(1-0)
Friendly
Sh.Ameobi(5)
6,863
Shola Ameobi made it three pre-season goals in as many games as Newcastle won at a sunny Bloomfield Road.

United's number 23 netted the only goal of sterile encounter against a Tangerines side including his former Magpie striking partner, Michael Chopra. 

NUFC.com match report


2017
Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mikel Merino was unveiled as a Newcastle player - United's fifth close season capture following Christian Atsu, Florian Lejeune, Jacob Murphy and Javier Manquillo.

The 21 year-old Spaniard officially made a season-long loan switch, with a permanent deal following a set number of games but less than a year later left for Real Sociedad.

2018 FC Porto (Portugal) (a)
0-0
(0-0)
Friendly

43,829
United faced the reigning Portuguese champions at the Dragao Stadium in a game celebrating their 125th anniversary.
 
New boy Fabian Schar
featured, while Chancel Mbemba was presented to the home crowd following his move from Newcastle, but sidelined due to a training injury. 
NUFC.com match report


2019 United were reportedly set to sign Stanley Nsoki of Paris Saint Germain on a permanent deal - only for the 20 year-old full back to seal a transfer to OGC Nice.

2023 With
ratification of Allan Saint-Maximin's transfer to Saudi side Al-Ahli due, Karl Darlow flew back from Newcastle's USA tour in order to complete a permanent switch to Leeds United.

Loan deals saw Jamal Lewis join Watford and Kell Watts link up with Wigan Athletic.


2024 United named a 28 man squad for a two game tour of Japan, England duo Kieran Trippier and Anthony Gordon both excused after their Euro Final service.

Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, Lewis Miley and Callum Wilson were omitted due to injury but Sandro Tonali was included despite the terms of his ban preventing him from featuring in either fixture.