Ex-Fifa official: Newcastle United victims of Premier League blunder as controversy analysed
The Premier League should not have allowed Newcastle United to wear their special fourth kit in their 0-0 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday (13 August).
That is the view of former Premier League and Fifa referee Keith Hackett, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Newcastle’s bespoke strip.
The club’s regular three kits all clash with the blue and white stripes of Brighton’s home shirt so could not be worn at the Amex.
Newcastle announced last week (9 August) they would instead wear a special light blue fourth kit for the trip to the south coast.
The shirt, which also includes the city skyline as part of the design, will then be used as a warm-up top throughout the season.
“I think there has to be greater clarity between the two teams in terms of the team colours,” Hackett told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley.
“Sometimes these decisions are made in an office by the authorities at the Premier League.
“Under normal lights and daylight they might look OK but when you get to broadcast there are changes in terms of colours, they weren’t distinguished enough.
“The first people who suffer are the players. The spectators might know the players, know the runs but in reality, I don’t think those two teams should wear those colours. Newcastle shouldn’t have been allowed to wear that colour.”
The draw at Brighton means Newcastle have enjoyed an unbeaten start to the season and are also yet to concede a goal.
Eddie Howe’s side are next in action on Sunday (22 August) when Man City visit St. James’ Park.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has been left “surprised” by Newcastle United after pictures emerge.