A devoted Newcastle United supporter, Carl Howarth, has taken his fandom to extraordinary levels by naming his son after former striker Alexander Isak. The boy, now aged two, is named Isak Alexander, a nod to the player who was a fan favorite before his departure from the club.
On March 15, 2024, Howarth was among the first in line at the club’s shop for the release of the much-anticipated retro 1990s leisurewear collection, branded as NUFC ’95. The collection features a nostalgic design, including the beloved away shirt adorned with bold horizontal stripes and the iconic Newcastle Brown Ale sponsor. Fans can also choose from track jackets, sweatshirts, and retro pullovers, all part of a collection that has already garnered significant attention.
Howarth’s excitement for the collection is palpable. “To be honest, I’m always first in the queue. It’s usually about 04:00 in the morning,” he shared. “They always sell out so quickly. With this being the retro one, I thought it would be even worse.” His dedication to the club is evident, as he expressed frustration over stock shortages, stating, “You’d think they’d want to sell more, even for PSR reasons!”
Fandom and Family Legacy
Howarth’s commitment to Newcastle United extends beyond merchandise. Two years prior, he made the significant decision to name his son after Alexander Isak. At the time, the player was a hero among fans, and Howarth hoped he would stay with the club. Reflecting on this choice, he noted, “As soon as we found out he might be going, I reckon I was more than most hoping he stayed. He’s still been a Newcastle hero—scoring in the cup final—that’s how you’ve got to look at it.”
The birth of his son coincided with a special event for the club. Howarth recounted, “Our lass had the baby at 13:50, but I had tickets for a VIP talk with Kevin Keegan, Chris Waddle, and Peter Beardsley that evening. We managed to get her sorted at the hospital, and then I made it to the event by 18:00.”
Community and Culture
Howarth runs Altered Image Tattoos in Birtley, where he has built a reputation for tattooing the Newcastle United badge. He estimates he has completed over 100 such tattoos for fans who travel from across the country, including a recent client from the Isle of Wight. His passion for the club is reflected in his work, as he helps fellow supporters express their loyalty through body art.
The release of the NUFC ’95 collection has sparked excitement within the fan community, with several items already selling out on the club’s website. Howarth’s early arrival at the shop underscores the enthusiasm surrounding the launch. “I love what I’ve got. I’ve got one of each top, and one for the bairn,” he remarked, highlighting the personal connection he feels to the club’s heritage.
With his son’s name serving as a reminder of his dedication to Newcastle United, Howarth embodies the spirit of football fandom. For him, supporting the club is not only about the gear but also about creating a lasting legacy for his family.
