After 70 long years, Newcastle United fans finally had a reason to celebrate, and they did so in spectacular fashion.
On Saturday, an estimated 150,000 passionate supporters filled the streets of Newcastle to cheer on their beloved Magpies, who recently claimed victory in the Carabao Cup.
However, while the fans were in full party mode, the players were under strict instructions to keep the celebrations alcohol-free.
Eddie Howe’s Strict No-Alcohol Policy
Club legend Alan Shearer revealed on The Rest Is Football podcast that manager Eddie Howe imposed a strict ban on drinking for the players during the victory parade.
With a crucial match against Brentford just days away, Howe wanted his squad to stay focused and disciplined.
“They’ve got Brentford on Wednesday and they trained yesterday,” Shearer explained.
“They’re training today, Monday, Tuesday, and even Wednesday morning before the game.
Because Eddie had taken them to Dubai earlier, he told them, ‘That was your party.’”
As a result, none of the players attended the afterparty, and instead, they returned home straight after the parade to prepare for their upcoming fixtures.
A Sea of Black and White Fills Newcastle
Despite the strict orders for the squad, the atmosphere in the city was electric.
The open-top bus parade began at 4:30 PM, winding its way through the city before arriving at the Town Moor, where a ticketed celebration was held.
Fans were treated to a special Q&A session featuring Newcastle legends like Alan Shearer and Les Ferdinand.
At around 6:30 PM, the current squad took to the stage, receiving a deafening ovation as they lifted the trophy for all to see.
Adding to the excitement, famous Newcastle superfans Ant and Dec led the crowd in a passionate chant of “Toon! Toon!” before club captain Bruno Guimarães took charge of a mass singalong of Hey Jude, followed by some terrace anthems that echoed through the city.
What’s Next for Newcastle?
Newcastle’s historic win has not only given them a long-awaited piece of silverware but also secured them a place in the UEFA Conference League play-offs.
However, Howe and his players have bigger ambitions, with a top-four Premier League finish still within reach.
Currently sitting in sixth place, the Magpies will look to push for a Champions League spot as they return to action against Brentford at St. James’ Park on Wednesday night.
With their eyes firmly set on greater European competition, the disciplined approach from Howe may prove to be the key to further success.