Newcastle United are back at St James’s Park today as they resume their Premier League campaign against Sheffield United, but things look very different to when they left.
From disinfected balls to bare stands, temperature checks to face masks – and the odd lockdown beard – things are looking very different.
Here, we look at the dramatic pictures which show exactly how the ‘new normal’ in the footballing world looks at Newcastle United:
. Players observe a minute of silence during the English Premier League football match between Newcastle United and Sheffield United at St James' Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, north east England on June 21, 2020. (Photo by Michael Regan / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by MICHAEL REGAN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
This is the new normal at Newcastle United Photo: MICHAEL REGAN
. Staff were outside the ground in PPE
Only those with special authorisation are allowed to enter the 'red' and 'amber' zones - which cover the areas within St James's Park. Photo: Ian Forsyth
. Antibacterial wipes are at the ready
Staff are keeping hold of sanitizing wipes throughout the stadium, to ensure that every necessary precaution is taken. Photo: Michael Regan
. Even the balls are being disinfected
Every time a ball leaves the field of play and isn't immediately returned, it gives staff the chance to sanitize it. Photo: MICHAEL REGAN
1. Staff were outside the ground in PPE
Only those with special authorisation are allowed to enter the 'red' and 'amber' zones - which cover the areas within St James's Park. Photo: Ian Forsyth
2. Antibacterial wipes are at the ready
Staff are keeping hold of sanitizing wipes throughout the stadium, to ensure that every necessary precaution is taken. Photo: Michael Regan
3. Even the balls are being disinfected
Every time a ball leaves the field of play and isn't immediately returned, it gives staff the chance to sanitize it. Photo: MICHAEL REGAN
4. Lockdown beards are becoming common-place
Andy Carroll showed off his new-look facial hair during the warm-up for today's clash Photo: Michael Regan