Why Newcastle United v Everton is not on TV – ‘strange’ Sky Sports decision explained
Victory Secures Champions League Return for Howe’s Newcastle as Frustrations Brew Over TV Snub
Newcastle United are on the brink of a major achievement. A victory today would officially secure their return to the UEFA Champions League next season, bringing elite European football back to Tyneside. With Eddie Howe at the helm, the Magpies are within touching distance of a top-five Premier League finish, and their superior goal difference over Aston Villa offers a crucial safety net.
Even in the scenario where Aston Villa overcome Manchester United and Chelsea get the better of Nottingham Forest, Newcastle’s goal difference cushion ensures that three points today would seal the deal. However, if the Magpies slip up against Everton, the Champions League equation becomes more complicated. But with the final game of the season taking place at St James’ Park, where the Geordie faithful create one of the most electric atmospheres in English football, Howe’s men will fancy their chances of ending the campaign on a high.
On the other side, Everton—under the guidance of David Moyes, who replaced Sean Dyche earlier this season—arrive in the northeast with nothing tangible to play for. Regardless of today’s outcome, the Toffees are guaranteed to finish 13th in the table. Yet that doesn’t mean they’ll roll over. Last week’s emotional farewell to Goodison Park marked a poignant moment for the club, and they will look to close out their season with pride.
Everton have proven to be a stubborn opponent under Moyes, frustrating even the league’s top teams with their defensive organization and disciplined approach. The last meeting between these two sides, which ended in a goalless draw, serves as a warning to Newcastle. The Magpies will need to bring focus, intensity, and a clinical edge if they want to secure the three points that could shape the club’s European future.
A sold-out St James’ Park will no doubt provide a thunderous backdrop, with fans desperate to see their side clinch Champions League football. For those lucky enough to have secured a matchday ticket, the experience promises to be unforgettable. However, for the thousands of supporters who couldn’t get a seat in the stadium, watching the game live will be surprisingly difficult—thanks to a baffling broadcast decision by Sky Sports.
As the Premier League wraps up with all ten fixtures kicking off simultaneously at 4pm, the focus has naturally shifted to which games will be shown live on television. With the title already decided—Liverpool having wrapped it up weeks ago—and the relegation battle concluded, most assumed that Sky Sports would prioritize the matches with Champions League implications.
Indeed, the network has opted to show Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea and Manchester United vs Aston Villa—both crucial fixtures in the top-four battle. However, to the dismay of Newcastle supporters, Sky’s third selection is Liverpool’s clash with Crystal Palace—an utterly inconsequential match in terms of the league table. The only notable event will be the trophy presentation at full-time, as Liverpool lift the Premier League title.
As a result, fans hoping to follow Newcastle’s decisive clash live will be left in the dark. No live TV coverage in the UK means supporters must rely on social media, live blogs, or radio broadcasts for updates. For a game with so much riding on it, the decision has left many scratching their heads.
Nevertheless, comprehensive coverage will be available through local and national outlets. The Shields Gazette will deliver rolling updates, news, and reaction as the action unfolds not only at St James’ Park but across the country. Fans can also tune in to BBC Radio Newcastle and TalkSport 2 for full radio commentary of the match, ensuring that, even without TV cameras, the drama on Tyneside won’t go unnoticed.
With so much at stake, today’s showdown promises intensity, nerves, and possibly historic celebration. All eyes—at least those not pointed at Anfield—will be following Newcastle’s quest for a Champions League return with bated breath.