Newcastle’s first outing in their new kit this season will not be emblazoned with their usual shirt sponsor Fun88, and instead will have Chinese statistics company National Sports on it.
The short-term deal has been agreed with Fun88, in which they will allow the Chinese company to be on the shirts for both games of the Premier League Asia Trophy.
The move is being used as an attempt to strengthen ties for the club in China – which was a major part of the club’s acceptance to participate in the pre-season tournament.
Newcastle’s Head Of Commercial, Dale Aitchison, said: “We are pleased to be partnering the National Sports app and to be building on our appearance at the Premier League Asia Trophy by strengthening commercial relationships.
“National Sports is all about giving fans access to stats which bring the game to life, so it is a great fit to coincide with our matches in front of passionate Chinese supporters.”
Newcastle have long-hoped for more exposure in Asia, and this two-game deal will certainly do the club no harm, and it would not be a surprise if another Asian company becomes the clubs major shirt sponsor again, when the current Fun88 deal expires.
Newcastle fans have noticed something about new sponsor
Some fans have been cynical as ever, particularly regarding the similarity of the colours to that of Mike Ashley’s main store.
Here are a few reactions:
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