The use of third kits has brought a lot of experimentation in terms of colours across most Premier League teams. Many have used brighter colours, brash designs and broken with their traditions in a bid to engage new fans and drive commercial revenues.
However, Newcastle United's rumoured third kit caused controversy when it was leaked last week. That's due to the fact that the kit bears a striking resemblance to the national shirt of Saudi Arabia's all white body and lime green trim, with the Castore logo and club crest also in green. This provoked more accusations of the club's Saudi Arabian owners engaging in 'sports washing', as Eddie Howe's side would be taking the field in a kit that appears to promote the Islamic state.
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Chronicle Live asked fans for their opinions on the rumoured shirt this week and received many comments with varied views. Here are a selection of some of those:
Baz694: "It’s a third kit that will barely see the light of day. If it brings money to the table why not? Football sold its soul a long time ago."
ToonMags19: "Brilliant financial idea I don't have a problem with it at all and I will definitely be getting one."
Frosty: "You will never ever get a kit that everyone is a fan of. Personally I have no problem and hope that the away strip mirrors Brazil’s. Haters are going to pick any reason to once again jump on the Toon, let ‘em!"
Jmaknyc: "I understand the rationale. We do need to expand the fanbase and tap into new revenue streams. Obviously, KSA provides us with untapped resource. Simply put, NUFC as a global brand could do with more supporters. There just aren't enough of us. In order to remain in compliance with FFP, this seems like a no-brainer.
"Regarding the kit design itself, I personally feel as though it wouldn't have been so sensationalised if the Castore logo and club crest weren't green. Black Castore logo and traditional club crest colors and a white kit with green trim doesn't cause such a stir."
Spartatoon: "As long as it’s never red and white I’m fine with whatever they want to do."
Other fans admitted they felt uncomfortable with the idea:
Kidda from the toon 1: "Silly move just bringing more criticism to the takeover they should have at least left the crest as it should be and a black stripe next to the green. I'm all for a change with more white on the shirt shorts and socks, especially in readiness for Europe next year."
Stavers 55: "I've got to say it does look stupid when they've told everybody that the Saudi government have nothing to do with the club."
RobBrown: "Someone with a bit of common sense within the home camp should have suggested a shirt sponsor for the coming season with a subtle kit change next. And when I say subtle, I mean the green and white is fine but the club badge should have stayed black and white. The Saudis have their identity but it should never overpower ours."
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