Match of the Day pundit Danny Murphy provided a scathing attack on Newcastle United by saying that they are no longer a big club in the Premier League.
The Magpies are yet to register their first win of the Premier League season after they endured a 0-0 stalemate with Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon – and Murphy claims that even though they are “well supported”, they are not as big a club as they used to be.
He adds that it does not matter how many supporters come to watch the team in action on a regular basis – it is success and support from all over the world that can define whether a club is big or not.
“Newcastle are well supported, but they are not a big club. They’re a team that yo-yo’s between the Championship and the Premier League, how’s that a big club?” he told talkSPORT.
“The stadium being full or not isn’t about how big a club you are.” When asked what does defines a big club, Murphy responded: “Success and worldwide support.”
🗣️ Danny Murphy: "Newcastle are well-supported but they are NOT a big club."
🗣️ @BroadcastMoose: 'They get 52,000 fans but what else is there to do in Newcastle!?'
It's a question that has been asked over and over again… Are #NUFC a big club? 🤔
[📻 @JimWhite] pic.twitter.com/LaCLBRPXOr
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) September 24, 2018
OPINION
Although Murphy’s damning verdict on Newcastle may be harsh, it is had to disagree with him. Even though a high number of fans flood into the St James’ Park flood gates, he still thinks that this does not constitute being a big club. However, it is not just how much support that defines a club – it is also how successful they are. He is right – going back and forth between the top flight and the Championship definitely is not the epitomy of success. However, he must remember that under boss Rafa Benitez, the Magpies have been more successful than they have been in a while. It was his guidance that helped them lift the Championship title, and they would not be in the Premier League if it were not for him. If there was a different manager in the hotseat, then there is the possibility that they may still be playing in the second tier. The only way is up for Newcastle – and even though Murphy is right, it is all down to personal opinion.
