Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has called for calm in and around Newcastle ahead of planned protests expected to take place in the city over the weekend.

Police remain on high alert after trouble flared at several demonstrations in towns and cities across the country earlier this week.

There are reports of a planned gathering in Newcastle early on Saturday afternoon coinciding with the second day of the Magpies’ Sela Weekender at St James' Park.

Newcastle United Women face AC Milan at 1pm on Saturday, while the Premier League side face Stade Brestois at 4pm. 

Newcastle also play Spanish outfit Girona on Friday evening.

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Howe said: “Newcastle is my home and no one associated with Newcastle United wants to see trouble on the weekend, on the streets.

“Newcastle is an amazing place, with brilliant people.

"I just hope there's no confrontations, no aggressive scenes. We want to promote inclusivity for everyone connected with Newcastle and we want to see the place respected in the way it should be."