Gabby Agbonlahor believes Newcastle United can progress from the group stages of the Champions League, and says St James' Park could be the biggest factor in determining that.
Newcastle will make their return to Europe's premier club competition in the upcoming season after a brilliant campaign last term under Eddie Howe's guidance. They will likely have a tough group, however, having been seeded in pot four of four for the group stage draw.
A big part of the Magpies' success last season centred around their excellent home form. With the help of a revitalised fanbase, Howe's side lost just two of their 19 home league games last term, and former Aston Villa forward Agbonlahor believes they can carry that form into the Champions League.
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Agbonlahor told talkSPORT: "I think a lot of teams will find it difficult at St James' Park. Even European teams will. They've made that place a fortress. Imagine European nights on a Tuesday or Wednesday night at St James' Park, that fanbase and the atmosphere that they generate there.
"I think all teams will find it difficult there and I fancy them to get out of the group stage. I didn't have one good game there personally. It gets in your head and you think about the grounds you visit. Everton, for example, I always scored."
The upcoming Champions League campaign will be Newcastle's first in the competition for over a decade. They will find out their three group stage opponents on Thursday, August 31 after the final qualifying stage is completed.
