Newcastle host Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday at St James’ Park and will mark the occasion with a dazzling drone display which was rehearsed on Monday evening
Newcastle flew a dazzling display of drones over St James’ Park on Monday ahead of Champions League football returning to the north-east for the first time in 20 years.
Having earned a 0-0 draw away to Italian giants AC Milan two weeks ago, the Magpies will next host French heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday. With Kylian Mbappe and co set to be in town, Newcastle’s kit sponsors, Sela, are marking the occasion by setting up around 500 drones above St James’ Park.
Practicing ahead of Wednesday’s 8pm kick-off, fans gathered around the city on Monday to get a glimpse of the spectacular show 48 hours before the real thing. Newcastle’s club crest was on display, as were players’ names and numbers belonging to the likes of captain Kieran Trippier, new signing Sandro Tonali and star midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.
Also there was the phrase: “We’re back,” as supporters took up positions in car parks, on hills and in the city centre to enjoy the sights. A magpie was also shown by Saudi Arabian hospitality and real estate company Sela, who said on social media: “A spectacular drone show from Sela lit up the skies to celebrate the return of European football. Just a taste of what is to come for NUFC fans and the city of Newcastle.”
Sela’s senior vice president, Ibrahim Mohtaseb, said: “We wanted to create a little surprise for fans to celebrate the return of the biggest nights in European football to St. James’ Park. The fans, the club and the players deserve these special moments and I hope we’ve added to what will be an unforgettable occasion for everyone who loves Newcastle United and this city.”
Boss Eddie Howe won’t be giving any PSG players a warm welcome, though, saying after Saturday’s 2-0 win at home to Burnley: “I certainly hope we’re not laying out any mats for anybody.
“We’re determined to try and do well and one thing I’m absolutely certain about is the atmosphere will be as good as I have ever experienced here. I know the supporters will get behind us and then whatever we do from there will depend on what happens afterwards, but we’re really looking forward to it.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge that it will bring. I’ve already started my preparation for the game and it’s going to be an extreme test, but one that we can’t wait for.”
Leave a Reply