Sky negotiations ongoing

By MAtthew Jones
June 20 2002

Newcastle are locked in talks with Sky regarding the Manchester City away match on August 24, with Sky Sports keen to show the game live.

Newcastle are locked in talks with Sky regarding the Manchester City away match on August 24, with Sky Sports keen to show the game live.

The Magpies face former boss Kevin Keegan and last season's Division One champions in what is sure to be an emotional day at Maine Road.

The satellite broadcasters are understandably keen to televise the game, but United do not want a Sunday kick-off because they also have a crucial Champions League qualifying tie the next week.

Bobby Robson naturally wants as much recovery time for his men as possible with the European clash, against as yet unknown opponents, scheduled for either August 27 or 28.

The club are still in talks with Sky and City representatives in a bid to bring the original kick-off time forward three hours to 12noon on the Saturday lunchtime.