""I have sat in the home end in all of the previous occasions I have watched Newcastle at St James', but I will now be in the away end for the first time in a stadium where I support the local team too. "I don't know how I will feel when the game is being played because my feelings towards both clubs are so strong that I think I will suffer more than enjoy it. I don't want either of them to lose.""
""It's a joy that my dream of playing for Athletic is also linked to being part of a story as beautiful as the one forged with Newcastle," he said."
""They wouldn't let you spend anything," he said. "I'm not joking. I've followed Newcastle all over Europe and I came back with as much money in my pocket as I went w"
Julen Izagirre will attend the Champions League match wearing Athletic Club colours while also carrying a Newcastle United scarf, creating personal conflict. He has previously sat in the home end at St James' Park but will be in the away end for the first time, and fears he will suffer more than enjoy the game because he does not want either club to lose. The rivalry traces back to a memorable 1994 UEFA Cup tie when Athletic fans invaded the pitch and applauded the away end after a 1-0 win. That night forged strong bonds between the clubs' supporters and left a lasting impression on players and visitors, including Gontzal Suances and travelling Newcastle fans who recall warm hospitality.
Read at www.bbc.com
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