Newcastle United's die-hard fans will have to move away from their seats at St James’ Park – if United are promoted to the Premier League.
That means supporters who have been season ticket holders for decades will be pushed upstairs to the Upper Tie at the Leazes End.
The Premier League confirmed yesterday that all 20 clubs have agreed a new rule from next year that will require at least “one block” of away supporters to be located pitch-side in an effort to boost atmosphere at grounds.
Who the HELL comes up with this crap?
If United are promoted that will mean changes in the lay-out of St James’ Park, where fans are located in ‘Level Seven’ the top tier of the Sir John Hall Stand.
Richard Scudamore confirmed to Sky yesterday that the changes are to preserve the atmosphere at games, which is one of the division’s biggest selling points on the global market.
“Basically you won’t be able to be stuck up in the third tier, out in the corner, if you’re an away fan,” he said yesterday.
“Pitch-side is the easiest way of describing it but clearly some ground configurations (mean) there might be some gap between where the seats actually are, and there might be something else in between that and the pitch.
“It’s about atmosphere. One of the unique things about our game, particularly in England, is the amount of away fans and the noise they create. When an away goal is scored, you want that atmosphere and interaction between the two sets of fans.”
Fans are not happy about this - but as with everything else the PL does, they show no consideration to supporters.
They have also agreed a £30 price cap for away fans – which means no repeat of the astronomical charge Leeds have applied to tickets for the sold-out Elland Road clash later this month.
The exact number of fans will depend on the capacity of the ground but the Premier League have confirmed that no promoted clubs would be able to block the arrangement.
“The fans are an integral part of the Premier League. Their passion, commitment and support are valued enormously by the players, clubs and the League,” he said.