Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is hoping his team can conquer their travel sickness as they embark on a crucial Champions League mission to face Marseille at the Stade Vélodrome.
Magpies' Away Form Causes Concern
The Magpies arrive in southern France fresh from their impressive 2-1 victory against Manchester City at St James' Park on Saturday, where summer signing Harvey Barnes scored both goals. However, their away record remains a significant worry, with their sole victory on the road since early April coming against Union Saint-Gilloise in Brussels.
Howe appeared keen to separate Premier League form from European competition, stating: "The Champions League is different to Premier League games. I don't know if you can compare them." His team currently sit sixth in their European group with nine points from a possible twelve, putting automatic progression to the knockout stages within reach.
Familiar Faces Await in Hostile Environment
Newcastle will encounter several familiar opponents in France. Marseille are managed by former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi and feature Mason Greenwood, the former Manchester United forward who departed England under controversial circumstances. Greenwood has emerged as Ligue 1's leading scorer this season.
Howe acknowledged the threat posed by Greenwood, saying: "Greenwood is a very clever attacker from the wide right for Marseille. He's not just a goalscorer, he's also a goal creator. They use him in a clever way - he does his most dangerous work when he drifts infield."
The Marseille attack also includes former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, whom Howe described as "as good as ever at 36" and "a lethal finisher." The squad contains other Premier League veterans including former Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and ex-Burnley defender CJ Egan-Riley.
Security Concerns and Stadium Atmosphere
Newcastle supporters travelling to France have received official warnings about potential dangers in Marseille, including pickpocketing and street crime. Authorities have implemented strict policing measures, including a ban on wearing club colours and avoiding the popular Old Port area.
The Stade Vélodrome - currently known as the Orange Vélodrome - is renowned for its hostile atmosphere, though part of the south stand will be closed as punishment for recent incidents involving Marseille supporters. The French club received this sanction after their fans threw flares and projectiles at opposition supporters during a Champions League match against Atlanta.
Howe recognised the challenge ahead, admitting: "Lack of consistency has been a problem. We've played well in one-off games but we're looking to recapture the feeling you have when you know you are going to perform well."
Newcastle's European campaign continues with this crucial fixture before they return to Premier League action against Everton on Saturday, giving Howe's squad back-to-back tests of their character and quality.
