Supporting Newcastle United from Kidderminster – The people you meet due to NUFC

Whilst out socialising in Tynemouth, l saw a middle-aged couple looking resplendent, both wearing the snazzy looking Newcastle United third shirt. The white one with green trimmings looks tremendous.

I was sitting outside of the club at lunchtime participating in the noble art of quaffing with Auld Ellas and Shirley, the couple wearing the Toon garb were about 20 yards away.

I hollered over to them that they looked fantastic and they came over for a natter.

To my surprise, they both had broad midlands accents, they explained that they were from Kidderminster but supported Newcastle United.

I initially thought that they were up for the Sela tournament at St James’ Park, but they were actually on one of their regular vacations, having fallen in love with the area.

Rich and Sara were very friendly, said that they had begun supporting the Toon about 20 years ago, having been introduced to the club by her Geordie brother-in-law. They had both previously dabbled with more local clubs.

I was interested by the fact that Rich had Wilson and a number 9 emblazoned on the back of his jersey. He explained that he had a particular fondness for Callum Wilson, who he believed has been a cracking goalscorer and proven himself worthy of the famous number 9. Rich said that he really wanted Callum to stay this summer if he can somehow keep himself away from the treatment room.

This nice couple seemed to be replica football kit connoisseurs and went into detail about the differences between the new material Adidas used, compared to our former manufacturers Castore. Rich and Sara told us they spend a bundle on Newcastle United merchandise every year and the team has become their overwhelming passion.

We asked them what their hopes and aspirations were for the new season and they said that they couldn’t wait for it all to begin. They are confident that we will be challenging for the top four and that the team are well capable of going on a sustained cup run or two.

Me and Ellas were impressed and offered them some refreshment that they politely declined. Then after handshakes all round they headed off to the metro station.

They had undoubtedly made our day, just through some topical and friendly conversation that was instigated by them wearing their colours with pride.

As the weather turned a little breezier we headed indoors, where Michael the club manager entertained us with a short YouTube video highlighting our new signing, 21 year old Will Osula.

This lad looks canny good to me. He is direct and powerful and likes to pick the ball up, turn, and run at defenders.

It’s beginning to look like United will be going into the new season with Wilson and Osula as back-up for Alexander Isak.

I can sense a slight anxiety amongst my mates with regards to the potential transfer of Marc Guehi to Newcastle, getting it signed off. Everyone seems to accept that the Crystal Palace and England defender is a very good player, who would improve our team immensely.

For what it’s worth, I think we’ll get our man. I’ve no doubts that Guehi wants to come to Tyneside and has been sold the ‘project’ by Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell.

Anyone going to the Sela tournament, enjoy.

As for Rich and Sara from Kidderminster, it was a great pleasure for us to meet you and I hope to see you in Tynemouth the next time you’re both up.