For many years Newcastle have lagged behind their rivals when it comes to looking after ex-stars but that could be about to change
The management duo of Alan Shearer and Les Ferdinand
Newcastle United legends to take each other on at the Hero Pro-Am golf tournament at Close House(Image: Singe Vert Photography)
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Newcastle United are attempting to improve their rapport with some of their former stars with the creation of a new role behind the scenes.
Ever since the takeover went through a host of ex-United players who had not been welcomed back with open arms during the Mike Ashley era have returned to watch their old club. The likes of Shay Given, Rob Lee and Mick Quinn have came back to the club where they made their name after Ashley took exception to any critics of his running of the Magpies.
This has led to players like Given, Quinn and Lee taking a place on the team plane for global tours with the ex-player network improving vastly at St James' Park. One of the big stories in the post-takeover world for Newcastle was the name of Shearer's going back on the stadium bar after Ashley had ordered his name to be taken down and refused to erect his statue on club grounds.
Reverting back to Shearer's rather than NINE and lifting the statue over the wall was also deemed as easy wins PIF and former supremo Amanda Staveley.
But now CEO David Hopkinson and PIF have given the green light for the ex-player network to move up a notch. Newcastle will soon appoint a Legend Engagement Coordinator to ensure they don't miss out on any opportunities with former stars.
In their advert for the role, United say they want somebody who can: "Create an initial Legends & Ambassador Engagement Plan of activities and events that strengthens the connection between former legends, ambassadors, and Newcastle United.
"Deliver an annual calendar of face‑to‑face and digital initiatives and events that ensure our legends feel valued and included in the life of the club.
"Promote the Newcastle United brand and ethos in a professional, strong and positive manner.
"Coordinate and record ambassador appearances across departments, ensuring seamless organisation and strong club representation."
The advert also says: "To coordinate face‑to‑face and digital activities and communications that ensure meaningful relationships between legends and ambassadors, and the wider club community, working independently to create memorable experiences. Collaborate across departments including Communications, Hospitality, Marketing, Retail and Football Operations to provide seamless support and recognition, embedding excellence in every interaction."
In years gone by this is an area where Newcastle have been weak compared to some of their rivals like Man United and Liverpool. Indeed, a trip to Anfield is usually an opportunity to meet an A-Z of club legends such as Ian Rush, John Barnes, Jan Molby and Phil Thompson who have all had various roles since retiring.
At Man United the likes of Bryan Robson, Gary Pallister and ex-Newcastle boss Steve Bruce have been spotted behind the scenes while former England skipper Robson usually flies out on club tours with the Red Devils.
The new Newcastle role will have no shortage of applicants in what for many will be classed as the dream job.
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