Will the Magpie be returned to the crest of Newcastle United FC? Fans will be asked to decide

                           

The crest as it is today - not the hooves on the seahorses!

IS it time for Newcastle United FC to restore the Magpie to the club's crest?

Because of their black and white strip, the Premier League side have always been nicknamed The Magpies.

In the past, the bird has featured at least twice in their emblem.

But in recent years, it has been ditched in favour of two seahorses  which are thought better to reflect the Tyneside port's maritime heritage.

However, this crest is due to be changed subject to consultation with members and season ticket holders who will have the final say.

Says the club: "As our club grows on the global stage, the symbol that represents us needs to be able to keep pace. 

"It needs to show up clearly and confidently across everything - from kits to screens to merchandise.

"So we've been asking ourselves: how well does our current crest represent the club today? And how well will it serve us tomorrow?

"It's time to update our crest 

"This isn't a decision we take lightly. We love our crest. It's iconic and has stood us through unforgettable triumphs and testing times. 

"But it was created in a different era. Its intricate design doesn't always translate well in today's digital world. And it's difficult to reproduce it clearly and consistently.

"As football and the world changes, so too must the symbol that unites us.

"This isn't about walking away from our past. It's about carrying it forward with pride. 

"The crest is part of our story. It's on our shirts and inked in our skin.

"It deserves thoughtful evolution - shaped by the voices of the people who love it." 

Above and below - the Magpie used to feature on the crest