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Headlines from the Fans Forum
The official Newcastle United Fans Forum reconvened at St. James’ Park on Thursday evening as senior club officials met with supporters to discuss a wide range of club-related subjects.
A number of new members were in attendance in the stadium’s Sir Bobby Robson Suite, with the Newcastle United Supporters Trust (NUST) also resuming its place.
Ahead of detailed minutes from the meeting being published at nufc.co.uk next week, we take a look at some of the key discussion points raised by fans.
Current season
As part of the Fans Forum meeting, club officials and fans reflected on the current season - including the recent January transfer window.
The club emphasised that firm attempts had been made to strengthen the first team squad during the most recent window and confirmed that plans were now progressing for the summer, with manager Rafa Benítez working with Lee Charnley and the scouting team.
However, the club reaffirmed that its primary focus at present is on achieving promotion back to the Premier League and highlighted the belief in the current squad and the strength of the players within it.
New sponsor
The club confirmed that positive progress has been made in relation to a new main shirt sponsor for the 2017/18 campaign, with an announcement to be made as soon as it is in a position to do so.
It was also confirmed that the stadium’s name will not change from St. James’ Park in relation to the new sponsorship.
Stadium enhancements
The club explained that members of the senior team had paid a productive visit to Celtic Park to explore the merits of safe standing, but that it will await the outcome of current pilots and legislative discussions before further investigating viability.
Club officials also praised fans’ backing during the 2016/17 season, with initiatives including Gallowgate Flags and 'Wor Hyem 1892' continuing to support the team in their pursuit of promotion.
The club underlined its commitment to working with both groups as they continue to grow and develop their activities.
Ticketing improvements
Following on from the success of a digital working group held with forum members, which helped shape the new nufc.co.uk, the club confirmed that forum members and nominated supporters will be invited to attend a workshop to discuss improvements to the club’s ticketing process and strategy.
Club in the community
The group discussed the powerful role the club and its supporters can play in the community, with the NUFC Fans FoodBank cited as a recent important example. The club congratulated those fan groups involved and pledged its continued support for the initiative, which returns to St. James’ Park for the club’s 3pm fixture against Bristol City today, Saturday 25th February.
Supporters who wish to make a donation will find the collection point on Strawberry Place opposite Nine Bar, from 1pm until just before kick-off.
About the Fans Forum
The Fans Forum consists of members of the club’s senior management team and 16 supporters.
Four of the supporter members represent established fan groups Newcastle United Supporters Trust, NUFC Fans United, Newcastle United Disabled Supporters Association and Newcastle United Supporters Club (London), while 12 members represent individual segments of the club’s diverse fan base.
Ahead of next week's publication of detailed minutes, you can find out more about the Fans Forum or read minutes from the previous meeting - held in August 2016 - at https://www.nufc.co.uk/fans/fans-forum.