Newcastle United are yet to decide on St James’ Park’s future - a debate that continues to divide opinion on Tyneside.
Alan Shearer is open to the idea of Newcastle United building a new stadium to replace St James’ Park.
Whether the Magpies relocate from the iconic home has proven one of the most divisive debates since the Saudi-backed takeover. St James’ Park is loved around the world for its unique city-centre location and lopsided design.
However, the ground’s whereabouts is also why redeveloping the current site has proven a logistical nightmare. NewcastleWorld understands the club would prefer to construct a new stadium on the adjacent Leazes Park but, as it stands, no decision has been made.
Alan Shearer gives St James’ Park view
Speaking to Football Focus, Toon icon Shearer “I would be for that. I understand the need to grow. If it were to stay in the city centre, because that’s what makes it so special and unique about this place, it’s right in the middle. If it’s not too far from here I would be for that.
“I’m pretty sure the rest of the Newcastle fans would be too. That’s not taking any of the great memories away. We’ve had some amazing times here at St James’ Park. But the need to move on is really important too.”
Eddie Howe loves St James’ Park
Eddie Howe revealed last year that his preference is to stay at St James’ Park. He told reporters: “What makes St James’ Park so unique is its position in the city. That makes it totally unique. I’d hate to see the stadium move because it dominates the eyeline of the whole city and you can see it from miles around. That’s totally inspiring.
“Wherever you are in (central) Newcastle you get a glimpse and that’s so powerful. When you’re in it, the atmosphere, the look of the stadium, it’s a beautiful thing. I love being there, I love experiencing games there.
“The first time I managed at St James’ Park with Bournemouth I was like ‘Wow, I’ve never managed in a stadium quite like that’. St James’ Park blew me and my staff away. If the club were to move they would lose something special.”
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David Hopkinson on St James' Park
Speaking to the club website, Hopkinson - who arrived as the new Toon CEO last month - dropped a big hint on St James’ Park’s direction. He said: "Each team I worked for was the most important thing in that community. And the arena or stadium is situated in the centre of the city. I haven't worked for one where it was in a suburb, 15 miles from downtown.
“That is really important. Where ScotiaBank Arena is in Toronto, or where the Bernabeu is in Madrid, right on Castellana. Where Madison Square Garden is, the absolute heart of Manhattan. Where St James' Park is in Newcastle. Location matters.
“What’s clear to me is how much the pride people in Newcastle have for their community is expressed as love for Newcastle United. That's awesome. That's energising. That's exciting. That's what matters. Not every team in every community can claim that."
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