NUFC flag raised at Civic Centre ahead of cup final

Former Toon striker Shola Ameobi joined the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Cllr Karen Robinson, to raise the flag as the club prepares for its first trip to Wembley in over two decades.

The black and white flag was created especially for the occasion by the fans' flag group Wor Flags.

Ameobi said: "I'm really excited to be here to raise the Wor Flag at the Civic Centre.

"It's a great occasion that we are going to hopefully be celebrating on Sunday, so it's great to see that the city and the council recognises what Newcastle brings to the city and the effect that it does have.

"Hopefully the team bring back a trophy that we've obviously all been waiting for for such a long time.

"It's great that we are recognised here and hopefully that'll give the players and the manager a boost before the final."

Cllr Robinson said: "I am delighted we are raising a flag for Newcastle United.

"The contribution the club makes in terms of culture, a sense of community and the value to the local economy is immense.

"And when Newcastle play at home the city comes alive with passionate home supporters and visiting fan who all love the fantastic experience the city has to offer."

If the Magpies beat Manchester United on Sunday, it will be their first major trophy since the Inter Cities' Fairs Cup in 1969.