Newcastle United are intent on developing a much stronger relationship with their fans this season.

In an open letter written by managing director Lee Charnley, the Magpies chief discusses the club's plans to bridge the partition that has formed with the supporters.

The arrival of manager Steve McClaren earlier this summer has prompted the Toon to consider ways to close that segregation after a tumultuous few years which has seen fan support dwindle.

Charnley wrote: "In recent years I know that some of you feel a divide has opened up between the club and the supporters. We accept responsibility for the things we have done, or not done, to contribute to this, but with Steve's arrival and a new season ahead of us, we have been presented with a real opportunity to make progress as a club together.

"Often our mistake has been that we've not communicated well enough with you and I assure you going forward, this is something we will do better.

"I hope you can see from activities such as the pre-season open/family day, the emails like mine that are now being sent directly to your inbox, and with a fresh focus on engaging with you far better on social media, we are showing we have a desire to connect with you.

"What is absolutely clear is that when we are all pulling in the same direction and you are one hundred percent behind the players who wear our shirt, it makes the difference.

"Your support is magnificent and truly valued. On behalf of the board and all my colleagues, I hope that this can be a new chapter of positivity and progression for Newcastle United on and off the pitch."

Best wishes,

Lee Charnley

Managing Director