Football: Stadium’s name change sparks outrage

club announced dropping the 119-year-old name of its ground St James’ Park and calling it the Sports Direct Arena

LONDON: Newcastle United fans reacted with fury after the club announced it was dropping the 119-year-old name of its ground St James’ Park and calling it the Sports Direct Arena instead in a bid to improve its financial position. “Our aim is to continue to deliver success for the fans,” said a club statement. “We must make this club financially self-sufficient in order to deliver that success.” However, the move has ignited the animosity of fans. England cricketer Steve Harmison, a prominent Newcastle fan, has lambasted the move. “Of all the things Mike Ashley’s done since he became owner, this is the one people will find hardest to forgive,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 11^th,  2011.