Tough times ... but the mood on a match day is still fan-tastic

AT 3.00 tomorrow we are in danger of the focus turning back to football at St James’ Park.

Despite a tough summer and a series of off-field revelations and claims, Newcastle United fans have been brilliant when it comes to backing their side for the 90 minutes in each game so far.

There was a Sportsredirect banner unfurled at Crystal Palace but the fans’ noisy backing in the away end could be heard clearly in the press box opposite the pitch.

The perception by the wider media needs to be much more balanced.

It is not fans turning up outside the ground to kick off because the team isnot winning trophies or getting into Europe!

Far from it.

Any pundit outside the area who is painting a picture the team is having to play its way through a negative environment only needs to head up to St James’ Park to sample the atmosphere on a match day.

Going to Gallowgate on an autumn day for an old-fashioned 3.00 kick-off is a real treat for both Geordie fans and any neutral who genuinely enjoys the game for what it really should be about.

Visiting St James’ is a unique experience as it is one of the few city-centre grounds left in the Premier League.

Whether you are coming into the city via train, bus or car you can see the illustrious stadium from a distance – it is a sight which should warm the soul. Unfortunately, a club of Newcastle’s size currently has two big problems.

United are up for sale and there is no investor out there who seems to be able to see the potential of the club.

Secondly, the current owner also does not seem to see the full potential of the Magpies either and the club’s current status is one of stagnation.

Mike Ashley was in the stands at Crystal Palace to watch on from afar but he only sanctioned £23.6m for permanent transfers and there has been no progress on giving Rafa Benitez a new deal.

For all the unrest behind the scenes, Newcastle fans have continued to back their team for 90 minutes.

Just like the last home game against Arsenal, there will be another protest on Strawberry Place as fans vent frustration and call for change.

Yet the protests last time out were peaceful and at 2.45 tomorrow fans