St James' Park is a different place these days. While Newcastle United have always been able to count on the loyal backing of more than 50,000 supporters on matchdays, many attended from a sense of duty rather than with a genuine excitement over what was the come.
Now the scene couldn't be more different. With Wor Flags back inside the ground and leading the way with some spectacular displays, the pre-match atmosphere is something to behold. Premier League stalwart Gary Neville even said it felt more upbeat than during the Kevin Keegan Entetainers era on Tyneside.
Eddie Howe's side have done the job on the pitch too, remaining unbeaten in the Premier League in 2022 and edging away from the relegation zone. But if they are to continue their current good form, they will have to do so away from the home comforts of St James' Park, due to a quirk of the fixture schedule. Here's why.
