In just a few short minutes, Newcastle will be drawn into a matchup in the Round of 32 in the UEFA Europa League, along with a possible Round of 16 matchup. As the second place finisher in Group D, Newcastle are in a group that will be drawn against all the group winners, as well as the top 4 third place finishers in the Champions League. Because they are ineligible to be drawn against a team from their own association or their group, they have only 13 possible opponents in this draw.
I'll be following along with a draw by draw live blog of today's festivities. Follow along, comment on specific match ups or heckle... whatever you want to do. We'll try to have some fun as we learn what obstacles lie in the path of Newcastle United on the European stage. What are your hopes? Short trip but tougher opposition? Longer trip to perceived lesser competition? We'll know all soon!