Life as a Professional

For all the trials I had, I only wanted to sign pro for one club, and in November 1998 it happened. The photo shows me signing on for YTS terms, Chris McMenemy is representing the club and that's my parents watching. All the family and my friends and particularly my Dad wanted me to sign for Newcastle. It really was a dream come true for me.

Influences

There's been quite a few influences on my playing career, from my parents and brother to staff at the club. Peter Beardsley has always been my favourite player and now he's a coach at the club, it's great to get his opinion on my game. Another player who I've got a lot of time for is Lee Clark. Although he left the club a few years ago, we still keep in touch and I'd love to see him back at Newcastle.