It was as if the symbolism had been laid on: Newcastle United's flight to Barcelona was delayed yesterday morning because of a flat tyre. Consequently, the wheel had to come off, although for Newcastle in the Champions' League, that was a phrase used in Eindhoven five weeks ago after the 1-0 loss against PSV.
When that defeat was followed by another by the same team at St James' Park two weeks later, it meant that tonight's fixture in the Nou Camp, thought to be the showpiece when the draw was made, was reduced in status to a sideshow. For Barcelona, one humiliating point from four games, it is barely that and is being referred to as a "Euro-kickabout" in the Catalan press.
Champions' League Barcelona v Newcastle
A meagre crowd of 20-25,000, some 90,000 short of capacity, is expected to watch a game between two sides seriously weakened by injuries and suspensions and already with their eyes on domestic priorities such as qualification for this tournament next year. The Newcastle manager, Kenny Dalglish, has been consistent in his praise for his fit players during a difficult autumn term, but has never sounded over-confident about reaching the quarter-finals. Yesterday, Dalglish was downbeat once again, but it should be pointed out that, mathematically, Newcastle still have a chance.
It is, of course, an unlikely scenario, but Newcastle do have pride, points and, probably most importantly, cash to play for. With each Champions' League point worth £250,000, the financial hierarchy will certainly be looking for a win.
Unfortunately, the man upon whom their main chance depended, Faustino Asprilla, is a near-certain non-starter, although he has travelled. Keith Gillespie is suspended and Robert Lee is nursing a cold, but these might be the only two changes from last Saturday. Shaka Hislop should continue in goal as Shay Given is limping heavily.
As for Barcelona, already pessimistic due to three defeats in their last four league games, they have no less than nine significant absentees. Of these, Ivan De La Pena, Luis Enrique, and Sergi will be missed most.
