David Ginola also left Newcastle United at the peak of his powers for a Premier League rival - but now holds cult-hero status at St James’ Park.
David Ginola has opened up about being “part of the Newcastle United family” while paying tribute to the club’s passionate supporters.
In 1995, Kevin Keegan signed a French maverick from Paris Saint-Germain who, by his own admission, knew little about the Magpies. But he soon became aware when Toon fans rewarded him with iconic status simply for pulling on the black-and-white stripes.
Ginola, with his stylish weave, on-field flair and Hollywood looks, personified the ‘Entertainers’ era. He swiftly emerged as a fans’ favourite as Newcastle came agonisingly close to winning the Premier League in 1995-96.
From hero to villain and back again
The former winger left for Tottenham Hotspur in 1997, linking up with Newcastle teammate Les Ferdinand the same summer. He was routinely booed by the Geordie faithful for the rest of his career whenever he returned to St James’ Park.
Newcastle do not forget, a stubborn characteristic that the current superstar - Alexander Isak - is learning fast. The Swede has downed tools in recent months as he pursues a British record move to Liverpool.
As years have passed, Ginola has regained the love of Newcastle fans and is given a hero’s welcome during his occasional visits. The now 58-year-old holds a special place in his heart for the city that first introduced him to Premier League football.
David Ginola’s emotional Newcastle United message
Speaking to Sky Sports, Ginola opened up about the privilege or representing Newcastle fans and scoring goals at St James’ Park. A certain striking Swede may wish to take notice as he ponders his legacy on Tyneside.
“The importance (of Newcastle) is the people you meet,” Ginola said. “The people with hearts like this (big). The passion, the devotion of people is just amazing. Something you will probably never find anywhere else.
“Newcastle gave me the love and affection. Newcastle gave me something I would probably never have experienced in my life. The joy of playing at St James’ Park was something really special.
“Scoring a goal at St James’ Park, looking at the crowd and seeing so many kids, grandmas, grandads, all wearing the zebra shirts, you look around and say ‘Ok, I’m not English, I’m not Geordie… but I feel part of their family’. They said (to me) ‘You will always be part of us’.”
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Newcastle United statement
Hours after Isak went public on Instagram to try and push forward an exit, Newcastle released a statement referencing their “family” values. The door remains open for the 25-year-old to reintegrate and, like Ginola, regain the love of the Geordie crowd.
“We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening,” an announcement read. “We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.
“We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.
“We do not foresee those conditions being met. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”
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