Reap the Wild Wyn on Wednesday

Did you watch last night’s USMNT match versus Argentina? Did the style of play look familiar?

The USMNT could have worn black and white stripes, and you would not have been criticized for wondering why Newcastle was in the COPA semifinals. Lazy passing, awful ball control and hoofing made the match comfortable for me, a Newcastle fan. If you are not used to it then surely there was blood boiling. I was frustrated by the play, but there was an understanding of why it was happening.

Alexi Lalas wears his heart on his sleeve. He bleeds red, white and blue. Yet his post-match criticism, and pre-match predictions, lacked objective honesty. Yes Brad Guzan could have done better on two of the goals. Yes Jurgen Klinsmann could have fielded a quicker squad. The USMNT was never going to win this match, Jurgen specifically is the scapegoat. The talent simply is not there, and the three players missing the match due to cards showed how shallow the depth on this team is.

Sound familiar? We have been watching this for the past four years.

OK, let’s kick the ball.

Newcastle United Championship fixtures 2016/17: All you need to know

FIXTURES!!! WE HAVE FIXTURES!!!

Aleksandar Mitrovic will miss the opener at Fulham, the next two home games versus Huddersfield Town and Reading then an away match at Bristol City. Saying “Mitrovic will miss” means Mitrovic remains. Our opening match will also be televised.

Championship fixtures 2016-17: Newcastle United start at Fulham on a Friday

Why not double up on the fixture links? BBC Sport has some nice commentary worthy of your time.

Why going down 18th is a Newcastle promotion blessing

Read this for the data points, but let me tease you with this opening sentence.

Research into the fates of relegated teams across Europe’s five biggest leagues over the past ten completed seasons by news.bwin.com has revealed placing 18th in England’s elite tier is the most upwardly-mobile demotion form going.

Download Newcastle United's 2016/17 fixtures straight to your mobile or tablet

Or just create a shortcut to Coming Home Newcastle. We’ll give you match information, and make you laugh. In a good way. Not in an Alan Pardew way.

Sky Sports to stream EFL Cup draw

Newcastle and Norwich have first round byes thanks to finishing highest among the 72 teams in the EFL Cup.

No Liverpool Transfer Interest In Townsend

My threats worked.

Newcastle United transfers: Why Magpies will target permanent recruits over loan signings

Can Rafa have his cake and eat it too? Can one both plan for promotion, while only using players that will be retained?

Firefighters Free Alabama Teen Who Got Stuck Inside a Giant Barney Head

Is this the best way to become famous? Fleeting, or otherwise, what can top this?