Exclusive: Newcastle's Champions League clash in jeopardy as storm forces delay on crucial Milan departure, potentially breaching UEFA regulations

Newcastle have unintentionally violated UEFA regulations regarding preparations for the Champions League when their flight to Milan was delayed by over two hours due to a storm in Italy.

Eddie Howe and his team departed from Newcastle for their flight to northern Italy with a delay of two hours and 20 minutes.

Teams are required to conduct their pre-match press conferences according to UEFA regulations which specify a time frame from 12pm to 8pm local time on the day prior to the match.

While Newcastle had already departed, a storm engulfed Milan at 5pm, but it remains uncertain if this was the reason for the subsequent delay.

Eddie Howe attributed the delay in their arrival at the San Siro to the weather, acknowledging that they spent almost two hours waiting on the runway before taking off.

The press conference for Newcastle commenced at 9pm, which was two hours later than its originally planned starting time.

Howe: Milan arrival 'no big deal'

Howe insisted the weather which delayed Newcastle's arrival in Italy will not derail their Champions League adventure.

Despite facing a less than promising start, the club's recent European venture encountered a setback when they were granted permission to train on Tyneside instead of the San Siro. Unfortunately, they ended up staying grounded for over two hours. Nevertheless, Howe reassured during the press conference that these circumstances would not hinder the team's preparation for the challenging initial match against Milan.

He stated that encountering such situations is an integral aspect of our job and that it is not uncommon for them to occur. The delay was caused by a weather issue, which we have previously experienced. Although the arrival time for the players was slightly later than expected, it is a circumstance we are accustomed to, and it is not a significant issue.

Analysis: Howe will be frustrated behind closed doors

We News' Keith Downie in Milan:

Eddie Howe is likely to be displeased with the significant delay of nearly two and a half hours in Newcastle's flight. While we were present at the press conference, no information was provided regarding the delay, and to make matters worse, it appears that UEFA rules were violated even before reaching Milan. Inclement weather, specifically a severe storm around 5pm in Milan, may have contributed to the flight delay, which could potentially be considered a valid reason.

People may wonder why they didn't fly earlier. Eddie Howe preferred to hold training sessions in Newcastle instead of the San Siro. This was possible during this stage, but will not be allowed during the knock-out stages. I believe he made this decision to avoid any potential onlookers during the session the night before the game.

The delay of their flight by two and a half hours will result in knock-on effects. As they arrive for a press conference at 9pm, it is unlikely that they will reach their hotel until 11pm. This poses a challenge for Sandro Tonali, who requires rest ahead of the early kick-off game. Currently, the situation does not appear favorable.

Howe's growing frustration is evident in the lack of preparation for their first Champions League football game. Whose fault it is remains to be seen, but the absence of proper arrangements is evident. One would expect that Newcastle, with their extensive experience playing away games in England, would understand the importance of settling down in their hotel well in advance.