The new Wembley Stadium finally opened to the public on Saturday - late and over budget but in full working order.It's Ready And Waiting For Toon Boys To Visit
The new Wembley Stadium finally opened to the public on Saturday - late and over budget but in full working order.The troubled venue WILL host this season's FA Cup Final, despite rumours it wouldn't, and our boys James Milner and Steven Taylor will have the honour of playing in the first competetive match when they turn out for England Under-21s.
Local residents and England supporters were allowed in for a "community day" staged as part of the procedure to get the general safety certificate.
It was the first of two test days needed for the venue to get the precious document - the other is the Under-21 international between England and Italy next Saturday.
The turnstiles, escalators and toilets had all worked well, but it has to be said there seems some problem keeping check on how many go in. The FA estimated the crowd at "between 30,000 and 40,000".
Give or take ... 10,000 ... is a bit worrying.
Give or take ... 10,000 ... is a bit worrying.
It was rebuilt at a cost of £800 million.
The first goal in front of a crowd at the new stadium was scored by Mark Bright, former player and now a BBC sports presenter, for the Geoff Thomas
The first goal in front of a crowd at the new stadium was scored by Mark Bright, former player and now a BBC sports presenter, for the Geoff Thomas
Foundation Charity XI against the Wembley Sponsors Allstars, a match his team won 2-0.
Toon old boy Rob Lee made an appearance.
1992/2002 R.M.Lee 368/12 56
Made 298 league appearances for Charlton before moving to Newcastle for £700,000. England international who has been a superb servant to Newcastle. Was going to sign for Middlesbrough but Keegan told him Newcastle was nearer to London. The little liar! Signed for Derby County soon after Warren Barton but couldn't save them from relegation.
1992/2002 R.M.Lee 368/12 56Made 298 league appearances for Charlton before moving to Newcastle for £700,000. England international who has been a superb servant to Newcastle. Was going to sign for Middlesbrough but Keegan told him Newcastle was nearer to London. The little liar! Signed for Derby County soon after Warren Barton but couldn't save them from relegation.