Newcastle United news, featuring updates on Peter Silverstone, Cathal Heffernan, Darren Eales, Paul Dummett, Eddie Howe, and others.
Silverstone exclusive
Newcastle United’s commercial supremo Peter Silverstone has opened up on life at St James’ Park – and admits it is a “privilege” to be working for such a loyal fanbase.
The Glaswegian was one of the high-profile hires of the Saudi-backed regime and played an integral part in taking Newcastle over to the United States this summer to help push the black and white brand across the Atlantic. Just three days after the Magpies landed from the States, the former Arsenal and Brazil national team supremo caught up with Chronicle Live ahead of this weekend’s Sela Cup at St James’ Park.
Tickets for the Sela Cup can be snapped up here and Silverstone believes that the tournament is a great example of what the club is all about these days as Eddie Howe gets the chance to test the team against Serie A and La Liga opponents, and the club’s women’s team also get the opportunity to play in front of a crowd. Fans were queuing for tickets at the box office this morning, but as things stand cash turnstiles are also in operation on both Saturday and Sunday.
But speaking to Chronicle Live about all things United, Silverstone gave us the lowdown on:
*United’s view on stadium expansion and what lies in store next
Heffernan deal close
Newcastle United will ‘finalise’ the signing of AC Milan prospect Cathal Heffernan in the coming days following a successful trial. ChronicleLive understands the Republic of Ireland youth international has featured in two pre-season fixtures for the Magpies’ under-21s, with the latest appearance coming in the defeat at Barrow on Saturday.
Now, the Irish Examiner suggest Heffernan will become the latest academy recruit ‘barring a hitch’ in negotiations over the next two days. Newcastle have swooped to beat rival interest from Serie A sides to the 19-year-old’s signature, who is expected to link up with the under-21s setup for the new campaign.
The highly-rated former Cork City defender completed a fairytale switch to the Serie A giants in January last year on an initial loan deal which was made permanent in the summer. The League of Ireland side were said to have banked two five-figure sums as a result of the deal, although they are set to miss out on potentially lucrative sell-on fees with Heffernan’s expected move to Tyneside.
Ticket u-turn
Newcastle United have made changes to the ticket ballot after listening to supporters. Fans complained after the ticketing system was deemed unfair and some fans could have been left with £74 tickets.
United said today: “We have adjusted the ballot process for members purchasing home match tickets at St. James’ Park following feedback from supporters.
“The membership ballot for the Magpies’ first Premier League game of the season against Aston Villa opens at 10am on Wednesday, 2nd August – and closes at 10am on Friday, 4th August.
“Members were initially informed that seats would be allocated randomly in any available area of the stadium if they were successful in the ballot, with payment taken automatically.
“After reviewing feedback from fans and supporter groups, members will now be able to select a specific ticket price category that best suits their needs, and payment will only be taken automatically if they are successful in the ballot for their chosen category.
“This functionality will be operational when ballot registration opens from 10am. Please note that supporters are unable to select multiple price categories at this time.”
Dummett on new deal
Paul Dummett has revealed his determination to fight for his place at Newcastle United after signing a contract extension earlier this summer.
The 31-year-old has made over 200 appearances for the Magpies since making his debut back in 2013 and is eager to add to that tally after just one appearance. It wasn’t through the want of trying last season with Dummett available for selection after the World Cup and for most of 2023.
However, with competition for places high, Dummett had to be patient and wait for his chance. His attitude and performances in training were enough for Eddie Howe to offer him a new deal and keep his personal dream of playing in the Champions League alive.
PL rule change
The Football Association are hoping to crack down on poor behaviour from fans, managers and players during matches when the new campaign rolls around – and the proposed changes will affect Newcastle United next season.
On the pitch, clubs were fined a total of £1million for 20 different incidents where ‘the personal space of match officials’ was invaded by players last season. The FA hope to eradicate this type of behaviour by bringing in rules that state match officials now cannot have their personal space invaded, with yellow cards being issued if two or more players surround a referee or linesman in a ‘confrontational manner’.
Players and staff also must not instigate a confrontation with opposing players or technical area occupants. It is likely we see a lot more bookings dished out by referees this season when their decisions are challenged by those on the pitch and on the bench.
Coaches too have also been given a strict new set of rules. Managers must attend a pre-match briefing with officials before every game and must remain within their own technical area during a match. The latter has been a rule for a number of seasons but is very rarely policed properly by officials.
