Newcastle United’s preparations for their Premier League match against Southampton could face significant disruption, as Storm Eowyn threatens their travel plans.
Eddie Howe and his squad were initially scheduled to take a private flight to the South Coast on Friday afternoon, ahead of Saturday’s 3pm Premier League clash at St Mary’s.
The already challenging 350-mile trip from north to south is made even more complicated by the storm wreaking havoc across the UK, leading to further potential disruptions.
With winds reaching speeds of up to 80mph battering the North East overnight, Newcastle Airport has canceled all flights scheduled for Friday morning.
“Our plan, as always, is to travel today [Friday],” said Newcastle boss Howe.
“But we will seek advice from the authorities at the airport regarding whether it is safe to fly. If it is not, we may end up traveling tomorrow morning.”
If flying remains impossible, the team may need to consider traveling by road.
However, as Howe noted, that option presents its own challenges.
“It is a long journey, and there is no guarantee with the wind. What you think might be an eight or nine-hour journey could turn into a 12 or 13-hour journey.
“So we must be cautious in that respect. But nothing is guaranteed. We will seek advice and try to make the right decision.
“We have traveled before on the day for a 5.30pm kick-off, especially if the airport is close to the ground. Sometimes that is the easiest way; you’re in and you’re out.
“For a 3 o’clock kick-off, that is slightly unusual, but it’s something we must adapt to.”
Howe’s side will aim to bounce back from a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Bournemouth last time out—after many had tipped the Magpies as outsiders for a title challenge.
They will have a great chance to bounce back in style against lowly Southampton, who currently hold the wooden spoon in the Premier League this season.
Saints are sitting rock-bottom of the table with just six points, having won only one game out of 22 this term, conceding a staggering 50 goals and trailing 11 points behind safety.
Still, they will hope to extend Newcastle’s rut and potentially claim a surprise point or even all three, which would mark manager Ivan Juric’s first victory since his appointment in December, following the dismissal of Russell Martin.
