Newcastle United have got this 'really, really wrong' 48 hours before Chelsea clash

Newcastle United have been questioned over the timing of their new badge announcement.

On Friday afternoon, Newcastle announced plans to change its crest for the first time since 1988, prompting a mixed response among the fanbase. The Magpies have sent a survey to season ticket holders and members ahead of holding a series of consultations.

United have outlined three options: refine, revive or redesign, with refine and revive being club chiefs’ preferred method. NewcastleWorld has seen leaked images of what it could look like.

“This isn't a decision we take lightly,” a club statement read. “We love our crest. It's iconic and has stood us through unforgettable triumphs and testing times. But it was created in a different era. Its intricate design doesn't always translate well in today's digital world. And it's difficult to reproduce it clearly and consistently.

“As football and the world changes, so too must the symbol that unites us.

“This isn't about walking away from our past. It's about carrying it forward with pride. The crest is part of our story. It's on our shirts and inked in our skin. It deserves thoughtful evolution - shaped by the voices of the people who love it.”

Newcastle United new badge announcement questioned

With the club badge debate dominating the landscape on Tyneside, our writers Liam Kennedy and Jordan Cronin have both questioned the timing of the news.

On Sunday at 12pm, Eddie Howe’s side host Chelsea at St James’ Park in what is a potential Champions League qualification/ top five decider. Both clubs are level on points and on goal difference in the Premier League table.

Speaking on the Geordie Journos YouTube channel, Liam said: “I think they have really, really got this wrong. You do not define the biggest day, the biggest game of the season in the Premier League without the cups and frame it around a badge change because that's all people are going to talk about.

“Friday, in the pubs tonight around Tyneside, Saturday morning, out and about, what do you think about that? What do you think about that? Sunday morning...

“Everybody's going to be thinking about it and going on about it, having to go through the thought process saying, right, we'll put that out of our mind and we'll support the team now. Shouldn't even be a thing.”

Meanwhile, Jordan agreed: “No, I can't argue with that. It's literally the biggest game of the season. It's a Champions League decider. Game-changing finances. If they are to win, they won’t qualify for Champions League on Sunday, but they take a big step towards it. The whole context of going into summer, increased transfer budget, etc.

“It's such a massive game and the fact that we're now talking after speaking to Eddie Howe about a badge, I don’t think it's the best timing, let's put it that way.”

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