Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has congratulated Newcastle United on reaching the Carabao Cup final – even though it came at the expense of his beloved Arsenal.
Eddie Howe’s disposed of Arsenal in a two-legged semi-final, winning 4-0 on aggregate after a stirring St James’ Park performance last week. Goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon in the second leg booked United’s place at Wembley where they will face Liverpool on Sunday, March 16.
The victory has lit up Tyneside, with supporters now clamouring for tickets to hopefully see Newcastle end a 70-year wait for domestic silverware. Tickets went on sale on Wednesday to priority pot one holders.
In the first Prime Ministers Questions since the semi-final victory, Newcastle Central and West MP Chi Onwurah asked Starmer if he was happy to congratulate the Magpies on their victory. She also referenced the ongoing refurbishment work on the Tyne Bridge ahead of its 100th anniversary in 2028.
She said: “The Prime Minsiter, I am sure, will want to congratulate Newcastle United on reaching the League Cup final after Arsenal’s exit, but will he also in what is National Apprentice Week, congratulate the 600 apprentices who are learning trades from welding to quantity surveying as part of the Tyne Bridge Restoration Programme?”
Starmer, smiling, replied: to “I’m going to struggle to say I’m delighted with the result of that particular football match, but it will be a special day for Newcastle fans.
“The Tyne Bridge is an iconic North East landmark and I congratulate the apprentices who are helping to restore this vital piece of infrastructure.”
(Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Sir Keir is a lifelong Arsenal fan. The 61 year-old lives close to the Emirates in Islington and has been a season ticket holder in the same seat at the Emirates since the day it opened.
Since becoming Prime Minister, he has had to relinquish his seat for security reasons and use an executive box to watch Arsenal home games. He has also attended away games this season, including at Brighton last month.
He has previously been asked about the Tyne Bridge and has refused to offer any assurances that the restoration will not fall victim to Government spending cuts. Doubt continues to surround the final £6 million of promised funding from the Department for Transport (DfT) to return the North East icon to its former glory.
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