Mark Knopfler's famous anthem has been axed in favour of the Blaydon Races as Eddie Howe admits "tweak" behind the scenes
Newcastle United vs Everton has not been picked up by broadcasters
Newcastle United vs Everton has not been picked up by broadcasters
View Image
Eddie Howe admits that Newcastle United's backroom team were involved in the decision to drop Local Hero as the team's walkout song.
The famous Mark Knopfler song "Going Home: Theme of the Local Hero" is still set to be used on match days and in the build-up to games. But United will now walk out to the Blaydon Races as players are keen to come out of the tunnel to the sound of the Geordie faithful singing.
It is understood that the players would prefer an all singing, all dancing atmosphere to walk out to for games. Some fans are devastated that Local Hero was axed.
When asked about the decision, Howe said: "Well, I can give you what I know. I'm not directly involved in those discussions, especially with the schedule that we have.
"I've been putting all my focus on the team, but I know there has been discussions to the pre-match environment, and making sure that it's the best it can be.
"We're constantly evaluating that to try and make sure it's the best experience, not just for the supporters, but for the players.
"I think there was a few tweaks made. Obviously, I'm not out there at that moment, so I'm not really the best person to judge whether that's a success or not. I know there's been a few tweaks. Hopefully, everyone's enjoying the changes."
A statement from Wor Flags read: "Many have noticed a change in the order of songs pre-match at St James’ Park in the last couple of weeks.
"The club have told us the decision to swap Local Hero with the Blaydon Races before kick-off was done primarily at the request of the players and coaching staff, who want to hear the fans singing right at kick-off, which is not possible with Local Hero but is with The Blaydon Races!
"So whilst honouring the tradition of those two songs, the club have swapped them round so that Local Hero plays before the team emerge and The Blaydon Races before kick-off.
"It’s up to us to live up to that request and belt out the Blaydon Races and also carry it into the game. Massive game tomorrow night. Bring your scarf, get it twirling, get behind the lads. Howay Newcastle!"
The song was re-released last year with Knopfler saying: "What I really want to do, more than anything else, is just to thank each and every one for this sterling response. I really had no idea that it was going to be like this. It hit Guy (Fletcher) and I quite early on that we had to extend this piece somehow, to take in the number of people who joined in.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image
Content Image
Here at ChronicleLive, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Newcastle United coverage and analysis.
Make sure you don't miss out on the latest NUFC news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.
You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.
And, finally, if you would rather listen to our expert analysis then make sure to check out our Everything is Black and White podcast. Our shows are available on all podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and you can also watch along on YouTube.