Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has told fans that their stadium name change is all part of the club's progression.

The Magpies board revealed last week that St James's Park would now be called the Sports Direct Arena, much to the dismay of fans.

"We were not particularly keen on the change," said Pardew. "You get confident in what you see and what you know.

"Clubs have to move on and I hope that the fans understand that, but they'll still be in their same seats roaring us on."

Newcastle take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Written by
Jack Prescott