Like most Newcastle United fans, Alan Shearer wants to remain at St James’ Park.
The stadium situation is a hot topic of debate amongst Newcastle United supporters, as PIF ponder whether to expand St James’ Park or build a completely new stadium.
It has been reported that expanding St James’ Park could cost £1billion. That would see the Magpies’ stadium increase its capacity to around 65,000.
Given the cost, it could be argued that Newcastle United are better off building a completely new stadium that is fit for purpose. PIF are considering a new stadium for Newcastle, but that presents its own issues.
The overriding issue would be location, as the reason St James’ Park is so special is the fact that it is in the heart of the city.
And Alan Shearer wants that to remain the case if the Newcastle United owners decide to move grounds.
Alan Shearer addresses Newcastle possibly leaving St James’ Park
Shearer has appeared on the latest episode of The Rest Is Football podcast, where he was asked for his thoughts on Newcastle United possibly leaving St James’ Park and building a new stadium.
“If it does happen, I really hope it’s next door and they keep it in the city centre,” he said.
“There is talk about it moving behind the Leazes End, which I’d be okay with that.
“In an ideal world, if you’re giving me a choice, I would stay at St James’ Park and try and extend. But if that can’t be done, I understand why. But it needs to stay in the city centre.”
Location is pivotal for Newcastle with PIF investment set to continue
As Shearer says, a perfect world would see Newcastle United expand St James’ Park. However, we do not live in a perfect world.
Given the ground’s location and the fact it is surrounded by listed buildings, increasing the capacity of St James’ Park is extremely difficult. It is not impossible, but it will cost a lot of money.
That is why a new stadium is being considered. It would allow Newcastle to have a ground that is custom built, and give the club the best chance possible to sizeably increase its revenue.
However, that presents its own issues. Building a new stadium outside of the city centre would be easier, but it would also be a huge mistake.
Newcastle United must continue playing in the middle of the city, as Shearer says. That is why the possibility of building a new ground on Leazes Park is appealing.
With progress expected in 2025, PIF have a very difficult decision to make. Fortunately for the club, it is a decision that they are still on course to make despite Saudi plans to reduce international spending.
Newcastle will not be impacted by PIF’s plan to cut international investment, as the fate of St James’ Park continues to hang in the balance.
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