Newcastle United and Wonga Expand Sponsorship Deal

Payday loan firm Wonga has expanded its association with Newcastle United Football Club by becoming the principal sponsor of the Women’s team.

Newcastle United Women’s Football Club (NUWFC) will have the Wonga logo on their shirts for the 2013-14 FA Women’s Premier League season, anabolics after the Premier League men’s team agreed a four-year deal in October.

As a part of the deal, order Wonga will supply new home and away kits for NUWFC’s first and reserve teams during the season.

Former NUWFC chairman Phil Eadon, who clinched the deal before stepping down due to health concerns, said: “It is with great pride that we have been able to conclude this agreement with Wonga whilst within my chairmanship of NUWFC. I would like to personally thank Wonga for having the vision and interest to support the NUWFC women’s football team.

“Women’s football is getting bigger every year. As more media coverage is achieved, more companies are taking interest and helping to support the development and growth of girls and women’s football.”

Darryl Bowman, the head of marketing at Wonga, commented: “As a proud partner of the men’s team, it made perfect sense for us to extend our support to the Newcastle United women’s team.

“We’re delighted to support the development of the women’s game in the North East, and we’ll be keenly following the team’s progress throughout the new season.”

The men’s deal was met with distain from many of the club’s supporters, who felt that Wonga’s high interest rates were unethical.

The deal also caused striker Papiss Cisse – a devout Muslim – to refuse to wear the shirt on the basis of his religious beliefs. That issue has since been resolved.