On 7 October, Newcastle United will celebrate the anniversary of the departure of their unpopular owner Mike Ashley.
When Ashley bought Newcastle, he inherited a team that had only been playing UEFA Cup football just two months prior to his arrival in May 2007.
In the years leading up to his takeover the Magpies had regularly competed in either the UEFA Cup or the Champions League and had even flirted with the Premier League title under both Kevin Keegan and Sir Bobby Robson.
But Ashley's years in large represented a dark chapter in Newcastle’s history as they suffered relegation from the Premier League on two separate occasions whilst only finishing inside the top half of the Premier League on three occasions.
However, there were still some memorable moments along the way including two Championship title triumphs, a fifth place finish against the odds and an adventure into the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
With that in mind, we take a look back at the best combined 11 of players to have represented Newcastle during the Mike Ashley era.
This list is based solely on the player’s performances during Ashley’s time at the club. Therefore the likes of goalkeeper Shay Given who thrived before his arrival, and Joelinton who has enjoyed a redemption since his departure have not been included in this XI.
1. GK: Tim Krul
Former Dutch international Tim Krul was a standout performer in the Newcastle team which finished fifth - keeping 15 clean sheets while also saving two penalties. When fully-fit, Krul was an excellent shot-stopper and a player who could make a big difference in games. | Getty Images
2. CB: Fabricio Coloccini
Argentinian international Fabricio Coloccini initally struggled to get to grips with life in the Premier League but went on to become a stalwart in the Magpies backline with 248 league appearances. The former Newcastle captain made both the Championship and Premier League Team of the Season between 2010 and 2012 in the peak years of his time at St James' Park. | Getty Images
3. CB: Fabian Schar
Fabian Schar arrived at Newcastle United in 2018 for just £3m and has undoubtedly been one of the best bargains of the Mike Ashley era. The former Swiss international played a key role in Newcastle's survival under Rafa Benitez and Steve Bruce but has hit new heights in the post takeover era. | Getty Images
4. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
Jamaal Lascelles emerged as a real leader during the final months of the 2015/16 season and became an important part in helping Rafa Benitez change the culture at the club. The former Nottingham Forest ace captained the team to the Championship title in 2017 and has remained a key member of the team in the years that have followed. | Getty Images