Newcastle United chief makes 'massive' St James' Park claim as 94,000 figure hit

Newcastle United Chief Commercial Officer Peter Silverstone has explained why England’s visit to St James’ Park is a real cause for celebration.

After hosting England Women for the first time ever on Friday, Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions are next in action against Bosnia & Herzegovina this evening (kick-off 7:45pm) in what is their first St James’ Park appearance since 2005.

The Magpies have received a healthy financial sum from the FA but Silverstone insists the prestige of hosting both teams carries a far greater weight than any commercial benefits.

“There’s obviously a commercial benefit, but I think the most important thing is what it means to the city,” Silverstone told local reporters last month. “To have England playing for the first time in a long time is massive. For the men, it’s their vital final preparation match before the Euros.

“Why have those chosen St James’ Park? I think a big reason is that Gareth [Southgate] is often here and knows what the atmosphere is like. He decided this would be the best place to play such an important game.

“We’re also hosting two of the world’s top women’s teams here, and when you put all of that together, I think it is a real cause for celebration for the stadium, the football club and the city.”

Over 42,000 fans attended the Lionesses 2-1 defeat to France while a sold out crowd of 52,000 will watch Gareth Southgate’s men tonight. That will bring the total attendance across to the two matches close to 100,000.

Silverstone added: “Then, of course, commercially, hosting events like this is always a major positive. There’s a monetary benefit, and it also massively helps in terms of reputation. We hosted two games of the Saudi national team in September and they were extremely happy with their games and preparation there.

“We’re hosting two games for the England national team now, and we’ve had other proposals and options to host other events. In the end, though, these were the optimum ones. It’s fantastic in terms of revenue and commercial spinoff, but it’s even more valuable in terms of prestige for the city and the venue.”