Newcastle expand St James' Park as Premier League confirms new capacity - but fed-up fans all react the same way

The Premier League has confirmed the official capacity at St James' Park has expanded to 52,264 for the new campaign, up from 52,257 in the previous campaign. The update has been met with disappointment and frustration by fans, who continue to await news of a stadium upgrade for Eddie Howe's side.

"They'll be celebrating in the public schools of Dundee," is how X user @CapitalG5000 responded to the news.

There was more sarcasm from @gallowgatenufc1, who posted: "No more need for anymore stadium plans or mock ups.  Sorted.  I might actually get a ticket now."

And @famoussnumber9 joked: "Will have to draft more foreign fans in to help fill the stadium then."

Newcastle were expected to reveal proposals for a new 65,000-seater stadium in early 2025 but those plans have been delayed. The club's Saudi ownership are now prioritising delivering other key updates before turning attentions back to the stadium, according to the Daily Mail. A final decision has yet to be made on whether to build a new ground at nearby Leazes Park or to redevelop and expand St James’ Park. 

Fans will pack into St James' Park on Thursday for Newcastle's next fixture when Barcelona come to town in the Champions League. An electric atmosphere will be expected on Tyneside as both sides aim to open up their respective European campaigns with a victory.