Newcastle United is now a nightmare place to go for traveling teams.
While the atmosphere at St James’ Park at times bordered on the toxic at points during the Mike Ashley years, everything has changed since.
New owners, new management and a squad revitalised under Eddie Howe’s watch has transformed the mood of the club.
Only Liverpool have won on Tyneside this season, with all of Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea unable to take three points there.
With home games against Brighton, Tottenham and Arsenal to come, there is little reason for Newcastle to fear during the run-in.
Indeed, they’ve created a hostile atmosphere once again to make life hugely difficult for opposing teams.
But how do players see it?
Callum Wilson names second best atmosphere in England
Clearly, atmosphere at certain grounds is a topic hotly debated by supporters but few of us can know whether or not it truly impacts the players on the pitch.
Many talk about simply blocking out the noise when crossing over the white lines, while others sometimes describe the impact hostile atmospheres can have.
Now, Newcastle star Callum Wilson has shared what he believes to be the second best atmosphere in England. Perhaps unsurprisingly, he namechecked Anfield.
Talking on the latest episode of the Footballer’s Football Podcast, Wilson said: “After St. James’ Park, that’s probably the second best stadium to play at in the country.
“Even before when I was a neutral playing at Bournemouth, St. James’ Park was up there with the best. Anfield was the second. It gives you goosebumps.”
Newcastle’s home form is their 12th man
For all the talk of impressive atmospheres, Newcastle’s is clearly making a tangible impact.
They have only been beaten on home soil once this season, boasting the joint-best record alongside Arsenal, City, Man United and Liverpool.
Unlocking that strong home form has been crucial to Howe’s success and the supporters have more than played their part.
Long may it continue.
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