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Sir Alex Ferguson Named Newcastle and England Hero as the ‘Best Player of his Era’
By Matthew Guyett
17 – 21 minutes
Sir Alex Ferguson always tried to bring the best English talent to Manchester United, including Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer and Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard.
The Scot often prevailed in his mission to convince the brightest stars in the Premier League to join him at Old Trafford, namely Wayne Rooney from Everton, Michael Carrick from Tottenham Hotspur and Rio Ferdinand from Leeds United. It was hard to turn down a manager who had a proven track record of delivering trophy success, guiding United to 13 league titles among many other major honours.
Ferguson’s eye for talent was often faultless, and he was crucial in the development of the Class of 92′ that helped him claim the treble in 1999. It begs to think where some of the best players to never win a Premier League title would be had they spent time with the previously rampant Red Devils.
most-talented-newcastle-players
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Sir Alex Named Newcastle Legend The Best Player Of ‘His Era’
He wanted him at Man Utd
Sir Alex Ferguson
Newcastle have a rich history of housing some of England’s top talent. None more so than their all-time top scorer Shearer, the equally prolific Jackie Milburn and the simply sublime Peter Beardsley.
Every Magpies side of any generation often boasted one or two outrageously gifted playmakers but arguably the most gifted English player to ply their trade at St James’ Park was Paul Gascoigne. The Gateshead-born attacking midfielder started his career with the Tyneside giants before joining Tottenham in the summer of 1998 for a then British transfer record £2.2m.
Ferguson had shown interest in signing Gascoigne amid his meteoric rise at Newcastle at a time when the nation was on the cusp of Gazzamania. He waxed lyrical about the Spurs hero (via Sky Sports):
“He was the best player of his era, a breath of fresh air because he played with a smile.”
Gascoigne spent three years in the Magpies’ senior team and there were already huge signs of the enormous talent that was going to explode at Italia 90′. He was named the PFA Player of the Year in 1988 and produced several magical moments including a 30-yard stunner against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup that same year.
Paul Gascoigne’s Newcastle Career
Season:
1984/85
1985/86
1986/87
1987/88
Competition:
First Division
First Division
FA Cup
League Cup
First Division
League Cup
First Division
FA Cup
League Cup
Appearances:
2
31
1
3
24
2
35
3
3
Goals:
0
9
0
0
5
0
6
3
1
Assists:
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Yellow Cards:
0
2
0
1
3
0
1
0
0
Red Cards:
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Gascoigne On Turning Ferguson Down
The Spurs legend gave an interesting take on snubbing Man Utd
Paul Gascoigne
Ferguson was renowned for his man-management, managing to keep some of the biggest egos in check at United. There were concerns he’d struggle to deal with Eric Cantona, but the fiery French striker flourished under the Scot albeit the occasional moment of madness.
Gascoigne alluded to such antics when asked in 2024 about his decision not to join Ferguson at Old Trafford:
“People always say would it have been different if I had signed for Man United? Would he have kept us [me] under control? Well, Eric Cantona two-footed somebody in the neck in the stands. Wayne Rooney went with a granny. And Ryan Giggs went with his brother’s wife… So I might have fitted in!”
Gascoigne retired in October 2004 as one of the most naturally gifted footballers to grace English football, but not without his demons. He had spells at Lazio in Italy, Rangers in Scotland and Middlesbrough, Everton and Burnley back in England after his Spurs spell. It’s fair to say his peak came at White Hart Lane.
All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt – correct as of 25/04/2025.
Sir Alex Ferguson looking angry with Man Utd theme
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*FERGUSON’S BOMBSHELL! Sir Alex Names Newcastle Legend Who’s FAR BETTER Than the Club’s All-Time Leading Scorer! *
Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary Manchester United manager, has dropped a bombshell. He’s named a Newcastle United icon who he believes surpasses the club’s all-time leading scorer. The question on everyone’s mind is: who could this mysterious legend be?
*The Claim*
Ferguson’s assertion has sent shockwaves through the football world. He’s known for his expert opinions and keen eye for talent. Could he really be right about this Newcastle legend?
*The Debate*
Ferguson’s claim has sparked a heated debate among football fans. Some are defending the all-time leading scorer’s legacy, while others are backing Ferguson’s choice. Who do you think deserves the top spot?
*The Identity*
Speculation is rife about the identity of Ferguson’s chosen legend. Is it someone from Newcastle’s glorious past, like Kevin Keegan or Peter Beardsley? Or perhaps a current star like Alexander Isak or Kieran Trippier?
*Ferguson’s Credentials*
As one of the most successful managers in football history, Ferguson’s opinion carries significant weight. He’s known for his tactical genius and ability to spot talent. Could he really see something in this Newcastle legend that others don’t?
*The Verdict*
Ultimately, the question of who is the greatest Newcastle United player of all time is subjective. Do you agree with Ferguson’s choice, or do you think the all-time leading scorer remains the greatest? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
*Join the Discussion!*
What do you think about Ferguson’s claim? Share your opinions, theories, and arguments. Let’s discuss and find out who truly deserves the top spot!
