‘Stupid’ - Newcastle United legend weighs in on controversial St James’ Park debate
Paul Gascoigne believes Newcastle United would be “stupid” to move from their city centre location.
St James’ Park’s future has become the hottest topic on Tyneside in recent weeks. Toon chiefs are mulling over whether to expand, rebuild or relocate to increase attendances at home games.
Newcastle have played at St James’ Park for the entirety of their 132-year history. Initially a cattle-grazing field, the ground was home to Newcastle Rangers and Newcastle West End before its current occupants moved in.
The location at the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne makes it the only city-centre ground in the Premier League. That is why moving - and the consequences doing so would bring to local businesses - has been a controversial debate. Watch on Shots! Geordie Journos reflect on Newcastle United takeover - three years on
Brad Miller, the club’s Chief Operating Officer, revealed 10 days ago that an ultimate decision will be made in early 2025 following further consultation with architects, fans and local authorities.
But many took his comments - which promised “one cheque” for a “once-in-a-lifetime” investment - as a precursor to an eventual move. Toon legend Gascoigne is not against the idea but insisted any potential ground must stay close to its roots.
“It's an unbelievable stadium but I do feel sorry for the away fans," he told SportsCasting. "They've travelled so far and they come and spend a lot of money and they're like right up in the corner.
“I remember when I left Newcastle there were about 20 or 30,000 people waiting on the waiting list for a season ticket. It would be a shame if they built a new stadium outside the city, that would be stupid. You can't move from the place it is. Keep it in the city centre.”