Newcastle United's Greatest Ever Team revealed: The star-studded XI picked by fans; This Newcastle United team would be a match for ANY side that has ever set foot on St James' Park.
Byline: Mark Douglas
The votes are in -- all 8,000 of them.
We asked Newcastle United fans to vote for their greatest ever side and you rose to the occasion, with selections coming in through our website and paper ballots that were included inand Sunday Sun.
In conjunction with the club we devised a shortlist and launched the search last month and we can now reveal the team. It is a star-studded XI that would be a match for most teams in England.
Although every single one of the nominees collected votes, modern day great Given was a clear winner in the goalkeeper department with a whopping 83% of the votes.
One of the all-time leading appearance makers for the club, United fans saw him star in goal for a 12-year period that saw some ofNewcastle'smost famous nights. Although he didn't win a trophy -- one of his greatest regrets, he insists -- he was in goal for an FA Cup final and numerous campaigns in the Champions League.
Given was brave, agile and a superb shot stopper. He is a worthy custodian for United's finest XI.
Other short-listed players: Jimmy Lawrence (6%), Steve Harper (3%), Willie McFaul (5%).
Other players nominated by readers: Ronnie Simpson,Tim Krul, Pavel Srnicek
He was the right-back for nearly 20 years at St James' Park: he is in the top ten in all-time appearances for the Magpies and would be a consistent presence at right-back.
In an era when over-lapping full-backs are in fashion, Craig would provide the balance for an all-time team. The Northern Ireland defender was one of the greatest to ever pull on black and white.
Other short-listed players: Bill McCracken (19%), Bobby Cowell (14%), Irving Natrass (18%)
Other players nominated: Warren Barton, Barry Venison, Steve Watson, John Anderson, Danny Simpson
A true United great. A superb reader of the game whose intelligence on the field means he would not look out of place in today's game, Moncur was as composed as he was determined, The last man to lift a major trophy in black and white, he was a leader of men too -- a fantastic captain who exuded a quiet authority.
Moncuris an obvious and overwhelming pick for the centre-back slot and would be a strong candidate for the armband of the greatest ever XI.
Albert made less than 100 appearances for Newcastle but his performances were impressive enough in a very good United side to cement his place in the greatest ever team.
He was a good defender: strong in the air and a commanding presence at the back. But he will be...
To continue reading
Request your trial