Is it time for Local Hero to stay at home?
FORMER Newcastle United striker Mick Quinn wants the club to change to club’s matchday anthem at St James’ Park.
Quinny, a Chronicle columnist who played for the Magpies between 1989 and 1992, made the controversial request live on talkSPORT, where he is now a radio host and pundit.
Currently, players enter the pitch to Mark Knopfler’s Going Home (Local Hero) - but 54-year-old Quinn feels it may be time for a change.
“It all stems from something little like they come out to Local Hero, that’s not going to scare anyone,” he said.
“I’d change the title music to the old Blaydon Races and a rousing reception as they’re coming down the stairs onto the pitch and get the atmosphere up there.
“The fans and noise level are instrumental in a promotion push.”
The Local Hero album was released in 1983 and has been the club’s official anthem for seasons.
But the Geordie musician’s song was controversially removed from the pre-match playlist in 2007 as officials said they were looking at ways to improve the atmosphere in the ground.
It was replaced by London-based punk band Sham 69’s The Kids Are United because it had an upbeat ending.
Just months black-and-white later, fans’ favourite Going Home (Local Hero) was reinstalled after calls from supporters. And it appears the majority of fans want it to remain at full volume when the players walk out at St James’ Park. Writing on Twitter, @failNUFC76 said: “I love Mick but I disagree with him with this.. I love the lads running out to Local Hero.” Adam Russell said: “Even when I’m not at the match I love hearing Local Hero on MOTD as the team lineups are shown. Got to keep it!” Jon Lamberton wrote: “Local Hero all the way Quinny - I still get butterflies when I walk out to it, the flags etc is the way forward.” And Chris Hewitson simply posted: “No no no no no no no no. In short, no.” But @adamf2384 said: “Go on do it, change is good,” while Richard Evans commented: “Great shout Mick. Blaydon Races every time. You get goosebumps just listening to it. Proud to be a Geordie.”