NEWCASTLE have taken drastic action after a player was left alarmed after almost hitting a fan with their car.
The Magpies have regularly allowed autograph hunters outside of Darsley Park.
However, a recent incident saw one fan nearly hit by a player in what has been described as a “near miss”.
The senior player was said to have been left “alarmed” with many fans often swarming cars on the narrow lane leading in and out of the base.
The Daily Mail‘s report also claims that supporters have been trying to get to the cars at nearby traffic lights.
The concerning moment convinced the club that action had to be taken to improve safety.
The Magpies have released a thorough statement urging fans to “avoid gathering” at the entrance to the training ground.
A statement read: “To ensure the safety of all supporters, players, staff and members of the public, we are asking people to avoid gathering at our training centre entrance and surrounding roadways.
“The only entrance for players, staff, deliveries and construction vehicles to the current training centre site is a narrow, single public lane that is shared by vehicles and pedestrians.
“As the number of people gathering at the training centre increases, so too does the risk of serious injury with so many vehicles and people sharing a small space.
“As crowds gather, people are stepping into the lane and creating a risk to their own safety and to road users.
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“Individuals also continued to pose a risk to themselves and others by entering busy roads to approach players’ vehicles while at traffic lights up to a kilometre away.”
The statement continued to reassure fans that the decision had been made for “safety” reasons.
It insisted that the relationship between the players and the supporters is valued.
The team have also been told by the club not to “stop” their cars when coming or going from the training ground.
It continued: “To support public safety, we have instructed players and coaches not to stop their vehicles upon entry or exit.
“We do not take this step lightly.
“We value the incredibly strong connection that exists between supporters and our players and coaches.
“But safety must come first, and we trust our fans will support the club, players and staff by adhering to this request.
“We will continue to organise opportunities for supporters to meet the players through the season, which will be communicated through newcastleunited.com and official channels.”
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Meanwhile, fans recently watched on as Newcastle beat Tottenham to book their spot in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
They will now host Fulham at St James’ Park as they look to reach the semi-finals.
