Fans of Brighton and Hove Albion are discussing ways in which they can unite in protest against the new owners of Newcastle United when the two sides meet this Saturday.
Among the ideas under consideration is borrowing the banner displayed by Crystal Palace supporters when the London club hosted the Magpies last month.
Brighton Fans Exchanging Protest Ideas Ahead of Newcastle Visit
Premier League Gave Saudi-Backed Takeover the Green Light Enabling the Deal
Telegraph football are reporting that Brighton supporters have been active on fans’ forums as they discuss the most appropriate ways in which to showcase their objection to the £300 million Saudi Arabian-backed takeover of Newcastle United ahead of the weekend fixture.
Although Brighton and Crystal Palace typically share a fierce rivalry, the banner displayed by fans of the latter club has brought their respective sets of supporters closer together of late, as they are unified in objection of a Saudi consortium owning a fellow Premier League side given the country’s human rights record.
It is understood that Brighton’s fans have not communicated their intention to protest directly to the football club, but this does not hide the fact that supporter discussions are taking place regardless.
Police Decided Against Taking Action Against Crystal Palace Fans’ Banner
Although police did investigate the banner that was unveiled at Selhurst Park during Crystal Palace’s recent fixture against Newcastle, it was decided that no action was necessary in the aftermath of the two sides’ 1-1 draw.
As such, the same banner could be seen once again this weekend at Albion’s Amex Stadium. In it, a member of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) could be seen brandishing a sword next to Newcastle’s magpie mascot and Premier League chief executive Richard Masters.
The banner also lists a number of human rights atrocities allegedly committed in Saudi Arabia, whose crown prince is also listed as the chairman of PIF.
