Achraf Lazaar believes the St. James’ Park faithful are the kind of support usually only seen among Europe’s elite.
Newcastle United man Achraf Lazaar has told Chronicle Live that the Championship leaders have a fanbase the size and passion of which is not usually seen outside the Champions League.
Lazaar joined the Magpies in the summer from Serie A side Palermo and has been mightily impressed by what he has seen from the club’s support.
In Italy, Lazaar played at grounds such as the San Siro, Stadio Olimpico, and the Juventus Stadium, which can boast some of the most intimidating atmospheres in western European football.
However, the 24-year-old has reserved special praise for English fans, particularly those of his new club, whom he suggested are supported by a fanbase worthy of Champions League billing.
The Moroccan told Chronicle Live: “At Newcastle it is amazing. They are in the Championship – not Premier League – but the crowds are like Champions League games.
“That is very good for any player here. It shows that it is a big name club. I signed for these fans and the name of this big club. The reality in Newcastle is that the support levels are very different. The people here love their football and get 50,000 fans each game.
“In Italy, the big clubs are Juventus, Milan or Inter. Other stadiums aren’t full. In Italy, it is difficult now but in England the grounds are full. When somebody asks what is the best league in the world, it is England for me and should be for all people.”
Lazaar may have been impressed with Newcastle’s fans, but he has not had that much opportunity to ensure that the admiration is mutual.
The summer signing has made just two appearances since his switch to Tyneside, an EFL Cup start in mid-September, and a Championship substitute appearance almost a month later.
He is firmly behind first-choice left-back and starting XI mainstay Paul Dummett in the pecking order, but will be desperate for more chances to impress.
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