The emotional Newcastle United tribute that Atlanta United supporters made to Miguel Almiron

Despite only being founded in 2014, the two clubs are joined together by Miguel Almiron, the Paraguayan forward with a smile as wide as the Tyne. Darren Eales, the Toon CEO, is another link between unlikely allies on either side of the Atlantic given his history in Georgia.

Newcastle reached an agreement last month that saw Almiron return to Atlanta following six years at St James’ Park. Limited game time under Eddie Howe this season meant the time was right for the 31-year-old to head home.

A reported £11million deal will boost Newcastle’s coffers ahead of the summer window - and free up vital PSR headroom. NewcastleWorld understands the Magpies are in their most favourable financial position since the early days of the post-takeover era.

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Hundreds of Atlanta fans greeted Almiron as he landed on US soil - with black-and-white jerseys also on show. The former Toon star has promised the Five Stripes the twilight of his career as they launch a bid for the MLS title.

He made an immediate impression at the weekend, setting up Edwin Mosquera’s winner in a 3-1 victory. But eagle-eyed Newcastle supporters would have spotted a Tyneside touch in from the Atlanta supporters.

A flag with the message: “Siempre Wor Miggy Y’All” was on show, with “Wor” - Tyneside dialect for “our” - highlighted in black and white. The full message translates as: “Always Our Miggy Y’All”. 

Almiron opened up about making his first appearance since joining Atlanta last month. He told the club website post-match: “I always try to give my best. Today, it felt really good to play here. 

“I'm really happy to come back and play here in Atlanta. It has been a while since I had feelings like I did tonight.”